Beekeeping in Portugal has traditionally focused on honey production. However, in order to increase profitability and ensure the sustainability of bee farms, it is essential to diversify the products obtained from the hives and innovate in production practices.
Diversification in Beekeeping
In addition to honey, bees produce various products with high commercial value:
- Pollen: Rich in proteins, vitamins and minerals, it is used as a food supplement.
- Propolis: A resin collected by bees from trees and plants, it is known for its antimicrobial and antioxidant properties and is used in health products and cosmetics.
- Apitoxin (bee venom): Used in alternative therapies and in the pharmaceutical industry for the treatment of various health conditions.
- Bee bread: Pollen fermented by bees, with a high nutritional value, used as a food supplement.
The production and commercialisation of these products allows beekeepers to diversify their sources of income, reducing their exclusive dependence on honey and increasing the economic resilience of their farms.
Innovation in Beekeeping
Innovation is crucial to optimising production and guaranteeing the quality of bee products.
In Portugal, initiatives such as the DivInA - Diversification and Innovation in Beekeeping Production. This project, funded under the RDP 2020 Action 1.1 - Operational GroupsThe aim is to develop and adapt production technologies to the specific characteristics of Portuguese beekeeping, taking into account the native bee Apis mellifera iberiensis, the local flora and regional climatic conditions.
The main objectives of the DivInA project are:
- Developing production procedures for products such as apitoxin, bee bread, pollen and propolis.
- Adapting international methodologies to the characteristics of Portuguese beekeeping.
- Creating tools and utensils that maximise production and guarantee the quality of end products.
- Set up experimental fields in various regions of the country to demonstrate and train beekeepers.
The transfer of knowledge to beekeepers is an essential component of this project, promoting the adoption of innovative practices that boost the diversification of production.
Benefits of Diversification and Innovation
Diversification and innovation in beekeeping offer multiple benefits:
- Increased profitability.
- Farm sustainability.
- Valuing Local Products.
- Contribution to Public Health.
Diversification and innovation in beekeeping are fundamental strategies for the sustainable development of the sector in Portugal, allowing beekeepers to explore new market opportunities and contribute to the preservation of biodiversity and public health.
What about you? Are you ready to innovate and diversify in the world of beekeeping? Leave your ideas in the comments or share your experience with us!