Category: Beekeeping

When freshly collected by bees, bee pollen is moist and soft to the touch, not inherently hard. The answer to the question "Is bee pollen hard or soft?" primarily depends on how it has been processed and stored, which significantly alters its texture and nutritional profile.

An average of around 5,000 pollen grains can be found in just one gram of honey, though this number varies dramatically depending on the honey's floral source and processing. Understanding how much pollen is in honey is key to determining its quality, authenticity, and geographical origin.

According to research, propolis is a resinous mixture created by honeybees from various plants and buds. The terms propolis and bee propolis refer to this very same substance, often called "bee glue," which bees use to protect and fortify the hive.

In many countries, beeswax is considered a food-grade ingredient, but due to its chemical composition of long-chain esters and alcohols, it is not broken down by the human digestive system. So, is the wax in honeycomb digestible? The short answer is no, but it is still safe to consume in moderation.

While many consumers assume that wild honey is inherently pure and untouched by human interference, research shows that purity is not always guaranteed. Bees foraging in contaminated environments can transfer pesticides, heavy metals, and other pollutants into their honey. This raises a critical question for many health-conscious consumers: Is wild honey pure honey?

Archaeological findings have revealed that honey samples discovered in ancient Egyptian tombs, dating back thousands of years, were still edible. This incredible longevity hints at the complex science behind what is honey literally: a concentrated, super-saturated sugar solution meticulously produced by bees through a process of collection, transformation, and dehydration.

Recent studies have confirmed that traces of lead can be found in honey samples worldwide, a phenomenon often linked to environmental pollution and beekeeping practices. However, for the average consumer, lead levels in honey are generally low and not considered a significant health risk.

Over 2,000 scientific studies have explored the health benefits of bee pollen, a natural superfood packed with nutrients. To ensure these benefits are not lost, understanding how should bee pollen be stored is crucial. This guide covers the best practices to maintain its quality and potency over time.

While most see purple star thistle as an invasive weed, beekeepers recognize it as a prolific and highly-prized source for one of the world's most distinct-tasting honeys. Harvested from the nectar of *Centaurea calcitrapa* flowers, this specialty honey offers an unparalleled flavor profile and a host of potential health benefits.

Over 250 active substances, including vitamins and antioxidants, make bee pollen a prized nutritional supplement. However, this nutrient powerhouse is extremely sensitive to heat, which causes it to lose many of its powerful health benefits. Understanding how temperature affects bee pollen is key to preserving its full nutritional value.