Quality Parameters, Metabolomics Profile, and Biology Activities of Some Honey (Apis mellifera) Samples Obtained from Pretoria and Johannesburg, South Africa

Background/Objectives: Honey is a natural product with important nutritional and biological properties. This study aimed to comprehensively evaluate honey samples with regard to physicochemical quality, safety, antioxidant capacity, and enzyme inhibitory activities. Methods: Moisture, proline, diastase activity, electrical conductivity, free acidity, sugar composition, and hydroxymethylfurfural (HMF) were determined according to relevant Turkish Food Codex, Codex Alimentarius, and International Honey Commission criteria. Naphthalene and residues of 92 antibiotics were analyzed to assess potential contamination. Antioxidant activity and inhibitory effects against acetylcholinesterase (AChE), butyrylcholinesterase (BChE), and α-glycosidase were also evaluated. Results: The physicochemical parameters of the honey samples were generally within the established quality limits. Naphthalene was not detected in any sample, while none of the 92 analyzed antibiotics was detected above the limit of quantification. The samples exhibited measurable antioxidant activity and inhibitory effects against AChE, BChE, and α-glycosidase, indicating the presence of bioactive constituents that may contribute to these biological effects. Conclusions: The investigated honey samples demonstrated satisfactory physicochemical quality and safety, with no detectable naphthalene or antibiotic residues. Their antioxidant and enzyme inhibitory activities further highlight honey as a promising natural source of bioactive compounds with potential functional and health-promoting properties.