*2.9. Analysis of the Isotopic Composition of Honey Using 13C/12C Isotope-Ratio Mass Spectrometry Measurement*

One of the spectrometric methods used to detect the adulteration of honey with the addition of cane or corn sugar and the incorrect declaration of the origin of honey is isotope-ratio mass spectrometry (IRMS) analysis. Isotope content is related to latitude, i.e., the climate prevailing in the place where the honey is obtained. This method is based on the use of proportions of isotopes characteristic of particular plant species. Its task is to estimate the amount or ratio of isotopes of one of the three basic elements (13C/12C, 180/16O, 2H/1H) and compare them with standard values [119–123].

This is a method with great potential, but it requires expensive equipment and specialized staff. In addition, its universal application does not guarantee the correctness of the results [124].
