Electrical Conductivity
Lexikon
Electrical conductivity is one of the most important measured values in honey analysis.
Electrical conductivity is one of the most important measured values in honey analysis. It is given in millisiemens per centimeter and is based on the fact that the minerals in honey are present mainly as salts and conduct current. The more minerals, the higher the value. This measurement has largely replaced the earlier determination of ash content.
The Honey Regulation (Germany) uses this value to separate blossom honey from honeydew honey. Honey in general and blends may reach at most 0.8 millisiemens per centimeter; honeydew honey and chestnut honey must reach at least 0.8. Exceptions include heather, lime, eucalyptus and strawberry tree, which naturally fall outside this pattern.
Typical measured values illustrate the range: robinia is around 0.16, rapeseed around 0.18, and forest honey around 1.07 millisiemens per centimeter.
For determining the variety, conductivity is used together with the pollen spectrum, the sugar spectrum, color, smell and taste. A single value is never enough on its own to substantiate a variety claim.