ABSTRACT:
5-Hydroxymethylfurfural (HMF) is a compound that is formed in foods during heat processing and improper storage conditions. HMF levels in food are an indicator of food quality and safety, as exposure to high levels of it leads to potential toxicity for consumers. This study is intended to determine and monitor the concentration of HMF in various apple juice brands available in the Syrian market, given their widespread consumption and popularity, particularly among children and adults. A total of 24 samples from four different commercial brands with varying production dates were analyzed using a rapid, simple, and inexpensive spectrophotometric method. The HMF concentrations were determined in newly produced samples and monitored over time in samples stored under two conditions: refrigeration (up to 9 months) and room temperature (up to 12 months). The results revealed variations in the HMF content of the samples across brands, with concentrations ranging from (0.0155–0.0198) mg/ml, (0.0240–0.0351) mg/ml, (0.0176–0.0220) mg/ml, and (0.0191–0.0283) mg/ml for brands I to IV, respectively. Furthermore, it was noted that the HMF content of the samples varied between different production dates and batches within the same brand. Although the newly produced samples exceed IFFJP limits (10 mg/L), they are in accord with the standards set by the European Union (50mg/L). For samples in refrigerated storage, a slight rise in HMF concentration was observed after three months of storage, with a more significant rise after six and nine months, where concentrations ranged between (0.0224–0.0470) mg/ml and (0.0341–0.0751) mg/ml, respectively. Yet, the concentrations remained within the limits recommended by the EU up to 6 months with most samples exceeding them after 9 months. Concurrently, samples stored at room temperature exhibited a considerable elevation in HMF content after nearly a year, with concentrations ranging )0.475 – 0.0987(mg/ml, which surpassed the prescribed limits in the majority of the samples. The study emphasizes the significance of implementing stringent quality control processes in both the manufacturing systems and the storage of these drinks. Standardizing these practices across all facilities and conducting periodic, regular inspections is also crucial to ensure both product quality and consumer safety.