Researchers followed a new, complete bee feed from fall 2022 to spring 2024 with five commercial beekeepers in California and Idaho. The feed looks like a very thin, large granola bar and replaces pollen in the diet.
A biotech company developed the supplement and worked with a university honey bee program to test it. Colonies that received the new feed stayed healthier through winter and the almond pollination season. These hives had more adult bees and more young bees, and fewer died in winter compared with the usual feed. The company plans to begin commercial shipments soon.
Difficult words
- supplement — Extra food or nutrient for animals or people.
- colony — A group of bees living together in a hive.Colonies
- pollination — When bees move pollen and help plants make fruit.
- commercial — Related to business or products sold to customers.
- develop — To make or create something new.developed
Tip: hover, focus or tap highlighted words in the article to see quick definitions while you read or listen.
Discussion questions
- Why is a bee feed that replaces pollen useful for beekeepers?
- How might healthier bees affect almond pollination season?
- Would you buy a product from a company that helps bee health? Why or why not?
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