AuthenticHoneyDNA
DNA-based analysis of honey for the promotion and authentication of Italian honey
AuthenticHoneyDNA, funded by MASAF and coordinated by DISTAL, aims to develop an integrated genomic platform for Italian honey based on the analysis of honey environmental DNA (eDNA). This eDNA contains information from bees, plants, insects, microorganisms and the production environment. The project will expand the existing database by integrating genomic, geographical, botanical, entomological and environmental information through next genera-tion sequencing (NGS) and bioinformatics approaches. The platform will support honey authentication and traceabil-ity, promotion of biodiversity and the beekeeping sector, fraud prevention, research and certification, while also ena-bling the monitoring of emerging biotic threats to honey bees.
Funding Programme: MASAF – Bando Miele 2027
Coordinator: DISTAL, Università di Bologna
Research area: Zootecnia
Scientific officer: Luca Fontanesi
Duration: 01/09/2026 - 30/06/2027
Total Funded Project Amount: € 62.578,28
Research group: Luca Fontanesi, Francesca Bertolini, Samuele Bovo, Giuseppina Schiavo, Anisa Ribani, Valeria Taurisano, Maria Letizia Calabri.