Simultaneous qualitative and quantitative analyses of volatile components in Chinese honey of six botanical origins using headspace solid-phase microextraction and gas chromatography–mass spectrometry

Background Honey aroma is one of its most important properties and it depends on the qualitative and quantitative composition of the volatile compounds. The volatile profile of honey could reveal its botanical origin to avoid a false characterization. Thus, it is of great significance to honey authentication. This study developed and validated a headspace solid-phase microextraction and gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (HS-SPME-GC–MS) method for simultaneous qualitative and quantitative analyses of 34 volatile components in honey. The developed method was applied to 86 honey samples from six different botanical origins, including linden honey, rape honey, jujube honey, vitex honey, lavender honey and acacia honey. Results The volatile fingerprints and quantitative results were simultaneously obtained by using the full scan and selected ion monitoring (SCAN+SIM) MS scanning mode. The limits of quantification (LOQs) and limits of detection (LODs) of 34 volatile compounds were in the ranges of 1–10 ng/g and 0.3–3 ng/g, respectively. And the spiked recoveries ranged between 70.6% and 126.2%, with the relative standard deviations (RSDs) not higher than 45.4%. A total of 98 volatile compounds were found with relative contents determined, and the 34 volatile compounds were determined with absolute concentrations. Based on the volatile fingerprints and the contents of volatile compounds, honey samples from six botanical origins were well classified by principal component analysis and orthogonal partial least-squares discrimination analysis. Conclusions The HS-SPME-GC–MS method was successfully applied to achieve the volatile fingerprints of six types of honey and to quantitatively analyze 34 volatile compounds with satisfying sensitivity and accuracy. Chemometrics analysis showed significant correlations between honey types and volatiles. These results reveal the characteristics of volatile compounds in six types of unifloral honey and provide some supports for honey authentication. © 2023 Society of Chemical Industry.