Bee Food and Supplements are required as part of responsible bee husbandry. In times of low pollen and nectar, such as drought or through winter, bees may require additional food in order to survive.
Bee food supplements are used to help honey bee colonies stay healthy and thrive, especially during periods of environmental stress. These supplements typically contain a variety of nutrients such as vitamins, minerals, amino acids, essential oils, and plant polyphenols. They can be provided to the bees through various methods, including mixing them with sugar syrup. Some popular bee food supplements include Fondant, which is a processed sugar based feed, Super Protein Patties, which contains a blend of essential nutrients for bee health, and Mineral Bee, known for its use in maintaining honeybee intestinal integrity.
These Bee Food and Supplements are designed to support the overall health and well-being of honey bee colonies, particularly during challenging environmental conditions and stressors. Various companies offer a range of bee supplements, including those derived from royal jelly, bee pollen, and other bee products, which are believed to have health benefits for both bees and humans.
The frequency of feeding bee food supplements depends on the specific needs of the bee colony and the environmental conditions. Beekeepers often provide supplements such as sugar water and pollen patties when the bees cannot find sufficient nectar and pollen in the local landscape, especially during periods of environmental stress. Some beekeepers may feed for 2-3 weeks in the spring, depending on the status of their colony