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The aim of this research was to evaluate bee pollen load samples collected in Tuzla Canton regarding physicochemical composition and antioxidant properties, with relation to collecting area and time of collection. Bee pollen load samples were collected in two periods: March/April and May/June at 13 locations, dried and analysed for protein, free fat, ash, moisture, total polyphenol and total flavonoid content, and antioxidant properties. The results showed that bee pollen collected in March/April had lower content of proteins, but higher content of total polyphenols and higher antioxidant activity, while total flavonoid content was not influenced by collection period. The location had significant influence on bee pollen properties.

The research shows the influence of water temperature and brewing time on the polyphenol content and antioxidant properties in common marigold (Calendula officinalis L.) ligulate flower infusions. All of the collected samples were characterised by low antioxidant properties. The brewing time and the water temperature influenced the polyphenol content and antioxidant properties of common marigold ligulate flower infusions. In order to obtain a common marigold dried ligulate flower infusion with the highest polyphenol content, it has to be brewed for 10 minutes in water at a temperature of 80°C. The highest DPPH radical scavenging properties were found in an infusion prepared at the highest temperature of 100°C after 10 minutes of brewing. The results point to the potential possibility of using this raw material to make tea infusions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]