Analysing Grayanotoxins in Honey

Leeder Analytical has developed an LC/MS/MS method to analyse for Grayanotoxins in honey.  The source of this toxic in honey is typical from certain species of Rhododendron plants (Rhododendron brachycarpum).

Grayanotoxin-containing Rhododendron species grow naturally in various countries, including the United States, Brazil, Spain, Portugal, Turkey, Nepal, and Japan, mad honey, which is produced from the pollen and nectar of these flowers, is also used as a folk medicine to treat gastritis, ulcers, hyperglycaemia, hypertension, arthritis, and sexual impotence.

However, as indicated above, the consumption of such products can cause intoxication in humans, and the severity of symptoms may vary from mild to life-threatening depending upon the quantity consumed.

Grayanotoxin poisoning remains one of the most frequently encountered causes of food intoxication in Turkey, although cases have also been reported in Austria, Korea, and Nepal.

Recently, concerns regarding poisoning from Rhododendron species were raised by the German Federal Institute for Risk Assessment, which called for a greater systematic control of honey from specific regions.

If you’ve sourced honey from United States, Brazil, Spain, Portugal, Turkey, Nepal, and Japan require for it to be screened for Grayanotoxins please let us know, our team are specialists in honey analysis.