In this connection, new sample prep

In this connection, new sample preparation procedures, alternative to long-lasting and cumbersome wet or dry ashings, are more revealing and desired because simplify and shorten trace element analysis of honey samples, especially in the case of a large number of samples.

With respect to this problem, suitability of a solid phase extraction (SPE) pre-concentration/separation procedure for the determination of traces of Cu and Zn in honey samples by flame atomic absorption spectrometry (FAAS) was evaluated.

Both elements were selected due to their biochemical and nutritional essentiality in addition to a very important problem related to Cu–Zn imbalance in various food supplies (Ma and Betts 2000; Osredkar and Sustar 2011).