*2.1. Samples*

Twenty-four samples of sunflower honey from various parts of Vojvodina Province, Republic of Serbia, were collected directly from beekeepers. All samples were delivered to the Scientific Veterinary Institute "Novi Sad" laboratory in their original packing for analysis. To determine the botanical origin of products, manufacturers used field observations. Only samples with verified botanical origin noted on the manufacturing specification label were used in our study. All samples were collected in sterile glass jars and kept in a dark place at room temperature (22 ± 2 ◦C). Honey analyses were carried out immediately after sampling and after storage for 18 months. All samples were examined in duplicate using the procedures outlined in the Harmonized methods of the International Honey Commission Methods [35].
