PERFIL DA PRODUÇÃO APÍCOLA E QUALIDADE FÍSICO-QUÍMICA DE MÉIS PRODUZIDOS NO AGRESTE PARAIBANO.

The objective was to contribute to the characterization of apiculture in the State of Paraíba, to verify the physicochemical quality of honey produced in the region and influence of the type of packaging used in honey quality. The data were obtained through a qualitative approach with semi-structured questionnaire and interviews with the rural owners. We interviewed 30 beekeepers from the municipalities of Bananeiras, Dona Inês and Solânea. 18 samples of honey were obtained for physicochemical analysis. It was observed that beekeeping is characterized as a secondary and family-based activity, through small fixed apiaries (86.67%), with 5 to 20 hives (53.33%), except Bananeiras, which have 21 to 40 hives (60%). An annual harvest is carried out (43.33%), with production above 100 liters (46.67%). Apiculture pasture is considered good, according to beekeepers, in diversity and numbers of individuals (56.67%), 30% provide artificial feeding to the exams. As limiting factors were the climate (93.33%) and labor (6.67%). Regarding the physical-chemical quality of the honey, it was observed average values: 3.45 for pH; 29.34 meq / kg for acidity; 0.64 Aw for water activity; 21.07% for moisture; 0.25% for ash and for total, reducing and non-reducing sugars of 70.54, 58.55 and 12.01%, respectively. The type of container used for the storage of honey did not influence its physico-chemical qualities. The data obtained demonstrate the potential for the development of beekeeping in the region, but requires technical investment to expand this economic activity. Honey samples meet most of the prerequisites established by Brazilian legislation, except for moisture and reducing and nonreducing sugars for some samples analyzed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]