The occurrence of residue of antibiotics and sulphonamides in different types of honey

Abstract

The presence of antibiotic residue in honey may cause serious threat for human health including allergic reactions, teratogenic, mutagenic and carcinogenic effects and development of antibiotic resistance. The aim of the present study was to determine residue of antibiotics in commercial samples of honey. One hundred and four commercial honey samples were collected randomly and examined for the presence of antibiotic and sulphonamides residue by using four plate method. The results showed that one sample (0.96%) was positive for antibiotics and that positive sample was detected from plate pH 6 seeded with Bacillus subtilis that indicate the presence of penicillin-type and tetracycline-type antibiotic residue. There is a need for continuous monitoring of honey in order to preserve its safety for consumers.