What is HMF? HMF Determination and Analysis Methods

What are the hazards of HMF? Why should it not be present in honey?

What is HMF?

Hydroxymethyl Furfural (HMF) is an intermediate product formed by the breakdown of hexose at the end of the Maillard reaction or in an acidic environment. Usually found in food products such as honey, milk, honey, jam, fruit juice and molasses, HMF provides information about the quality and shelf life of products. It is considered a quality criterion. High levels of HMF can be an indication that food products deteriorate, especially during heat treatment, which can have negative consequences for the freshness and nutritional value of the food.

Studies have shown that Hydroxymethyl Furfural (HMF) causes a high toxic effect. In high doses, it has risky side effects on the human body such as irritation of the upper respiratory tract, eyes, skin and mucous membranes, genotoxic effects and triggering tumor formation. Hydroxymethyl Furfural (HMF) is especially determined as a purity criterion in honey. Detection of Hydroxymethyl Furfural (HMF) in honey is considered an indicator of adulteration.

The amount of Hydroxymethyl Furfural (HMF) in foodstuffs is limited. Accordingto the Turkish Food Codex Honey Communiqué, it is allowed to be present in honey up to 40 mg/kg. In the Turkish Food Codex Communiqué on Grape Molasses, HMF is allowed up to 75 mg/kg in liquid molasses and up to 100 mg/kg in solid molasses.

Why is HMF Determination Performed?

HMF determination is a critical analysis for evaluating the quality and ensuring the safety of food products. HMF determination is performed for the following reasons:

1. Quality Control: The HMF level indicates the heat treatment history and quality of food products. High HMF is considered an indication that the product has been subjected to excessive heat treatment or storage conditions are inadequate.
2. Shelf Life Assessment: An increase in the amount of HMF in food products indicates a decrease in the freshness of the product.
3. Regulatory Compliance: In some countries, HMF levels are subject to food safety and quality standards. HMF Testing is important to assess against national and international regulations.
4. Nutritional Value Monitoring: High levels of HMF may indicate reduced nutritional value of food. Therefore, HMF determination can be used to assess whether the food is healthy or not.

Nano-lab Laboratories Group continues to provide services within the scope of HMF Determination in Food . We also provide services in Shelf Life Studies.

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