Antibiotic, Pesticide, andMicrobial Contaminants of Honey: Human Health Hazards

Journal Article

Alkhazim, Dr. Ahmed . 2012

• نوع عمل المنشور: ورقة علمية
• المجلة \ الصحيفة: The ScientificWorld Journal
• رقم الإصدار السنوي: 10.1100/2012/930849
• الصفحات: 1-9

مستخلص المنشور

Agricultural contamination with pesticides and antibiotics is a challenging problem that needs to be fully addressed. Bee products,
such as honey, are widely consumed as food and medicine and their contamination may carry serious health hazards. Honey and
other bee products are polluted by pesticides, heavy metals, bacteria and radioactive materials. Pesticide residues cause genetic
mutations and cellular degradation and presence of antibiotics might increase resistant human or animal’s pathogens. Many cases
of infant botulisms have been attributed to contaminated honey. Honey may be very toxic when produced from certain plants.
Ingestion of honey without knowing its source and safety might be problematic. Honey should be labeled to explore its origin,
composition, and clear statement that it is free fromcontaminants. Honey that is not subjected for analysis and sterilization should
not be used in infants, and should not be applied to wounds or used for medicinal purposes. This article reviews the extent and
health impact of honey contamination and stresses on the introduction of a strict monitoring system and validation of acceptable
minimal concentrations of pollutants or identifying maximum residue limits for bee products, in particular, honey.