Honey, long revered for its health benefits, was the topic of a recent lecture by Professor Dr. Fahrul Zaman Huyop of Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM) at Universitas Negeri Padang (UNP) on 1st October 2024.

His presentation delved into the intersection of nutrigenomics—how nutrition influences gene activity—and the potential health benefits of honey. Professor Fahrul highlighted how honey’s rich combination of antioxidants, sugars, and other bioactive compounds can impact genetic functions related to overall well-being.

However, with honey’s growing demand, the risk of adulteration is rising. He noted that many products are diluted with cheaper sweeteners, compromising their nutritional value. To combat this issue, Professor Fahrul and his team have turned to metabarcoding, a DNA analysis technique that identifies pollen species within honey, ensuring its authenticity and detecting adulteration. This innovative method promises to significantly improve the way we verify honey’s purity in the marketplace.

In addition to honey, Professor Fahrul discussed the health potential of Nigella sativa oil and young coconut water, both of which are being researched for their anticancer and antidiabetic properties. The lecture sparked great interest and engagement among students and faculty, underscoring the importance of research in these fields. By promoting the authenticity of honey and advancing nutrigenomics, Professor Fahrul’s work not only fosters consumer confidence but also supports the local honey industry.