FOCUSER: FOod traCeability, aUthentication and Safety by Emerging appRoaches

This research aimed to develop innovative molecular traceability systems for honey to enhance food safety and authenticity within animal-origin supply chains. Given honey's vulnerability to adulteration and mislabeling, DNA-based approaches were evaluated as advanced tools for botanical and geographical certification. The study focused on identifying molecular markers in ten honey samples from Puglia (Italy). The methodology integrated molecular techniques with in silico analyses to validate specific primer pairs for botanical origin assessment. Results were benchmarked against traditional melissopalynological analysis to evaluate analytical concordance. Findings demonstrate that DNA-based techniques are highly effective and complementary to conventional methods, offering a robust framework for the authentication and valorization of beekeeping productions.