Analytical Strategies for the Detection of Pesticides, Antibiotics, and Heavy Metals in Honey: Current Advances and Implications for Food Safety
Abstract
Honey is a natural food product highly valued for its nutritional and biological properties. Its quality and safety are increasingly affected by environmental contamination and apicultural practices. Among the most relevant contaminants, pesticide residues, veterinary antibiotics, and heavy metals represent major concerns due to their potential impact on human health. This review provides a comprehensive overview of the occurrence, sources, and distribution of these contaminants in honey, with particular emphasis on their relationship with agricultural activities, environmental pollution, and beekeeping treatments. Advanced analytical techniques, including liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS), gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC-MS), and inductively coupled plasma–mass spectrometry (ICP-MS), are highlighted for their ability to enable sensitive multi-residue and trace-level detection. The application of chemometric tools for data analysis and sample classification is also addressed, supporting the identification of contamination patterns and origin-related differences. In addition, recent developments in rapid screening methods and environmentally sustainable analytical approaches are discussed. Overall, this review emphasizes the importance of continuous monitoring and the integration of advanced analytical strategies to ensure honey safety, support regulatory compliance, and protect consumers.