How sweet it is - Researchers figure out what makes Tasmanian honey special

Tasmanian leatherwood honey has 12 unique natural compounds which could make it stand out from the rest.

A six-year research project at the Tasmanian Institute of Agriculture has identified 12 previously unknown natural compounds that not only highlights the honey’s unique health benefits but could also help to protect the product from brand imitation.

The study investigated the make-up of leatherwood honey in incredible detail, exploring what gives it a distinctive aroma, flavour and health-related properties.

It’s the first time leatherwood honey has been examined so comprehensively.

Tasmanian Institute of Agriculture (TIA) PhD graduate Dr Katharina Schmidt started her research to prove the unique characteristics of the honey in 2019.

The study identified new natural compounds that explain the honey’s complex, floral, sweet and earthy aroma - the kind of character that makes it stand out in global markets.

Several of the compounds identified are known for their antioxidant, antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties.

The study discovered that vanillic acid, lumichrome and lumiflavin were present in the honey and could assist in authentication, protecting Tasmania’s leatherwood honey brand from imitation.

 “We’ve identified 12 new compounds that haven’t been reported in leatherwood honey before. These special compounds are very useful for authentication of leatherwood Honey which is a major issue for the industry,” Dr Schmidt said.

“This research has potentially great outcomes for producers and consumers and will help establish a chemical fingerprint for leatherwood honey.

“The risk of falsifying leatherwood honey in the future would be harder because the unique characteristics could be detected and it could boost the honey’s value for industry.

“The consumer can also be sure that what they’re buying is authentic leatherwood honey so they can be assured their money is well spent.”

Dr Schmidt’s research is part of the nationwide Cooperative Research Centre for Honey Bee Products and initiated and part-funded by the Tasmanian Beekeepers Association.

Association president Lindsay Bourke said it’s vital research.

“It’s confirmed what we’ve always known that leatherwood honey is something truly special,” he said.

“Leatherwood honey is one of Tasmania’s most iconic natural products and this new research adds real scientific weight to what we’ve been telling the world - that our honey is not only rare, but it’s packed with natural benefits.

“The findings will support market development, branding and future functional food innovation.

“With rising global interest in health-enhancing natural foods and traceable provenance, this study puts Leatherwood honey on the radar as not just an exclusive gourmet product, but a functional food with scientific backing.”