Honeybees and other pollinating insects play an essential role in the production of approximately one-third of all our food and beverages. Species such as bees and butterflies contribute to the cultivation of crops valued at $24 billion. Pollinators are also vital for the growth of plants like alfalfa and clover, which serve as feed for cattle. Specifically, honeybee pollination alone is responsible for $15 billion in crops across more than 130 types of fruits and vegetables. However, exposure to pesticides is not the only challenge these pollinators encounter; they are also facing a significant decline due to a phenomenon known as colony collapse disorder.
In recent years, honey sales have surged, partially due to an increasing consumer preference for natural sweeteners. Between 2011 and 2016, U.S. sugar sales dropped by 16%, while honey sales soared by 57%. Consequently, it is not surprising that most honey samples tested contain traces of pesticides. Consumers are likely to continue purchasing honey unless tighter supplies push prices too high, and the presence of pesticides—at levels deemed safe for human consumption, as noted in this study—will probably not deter most buyers.
Last year, the Intergovernmental Science-Policy Platform on Biodiversity and Ecosystem Services published findings from a two-year study highlighting the rapid decline of bee populations. Annual surveys conducted among U.S. beekeepers have revealed that approximately 29% of honeybee colonies have perished during the winter months since 2006.
Food companies are becoming increasingly aware of this issue and are taking steps to highlight it. Alex Placzek, the U.S. marketing director for Häagen-Dazs, mentioned that honeybees are responsible for pollinating many ingredients used in their ice cream, bars, and sorbet. About 40% of Häagen-Dazs flavors depend on bee-pollinated ingredients. Other brands, such as Celestial Seasonings from Hain Celestial and Talenti, a Unilever brand, have collaborated with the Xerces Society, a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting bee populations. Whole Foods has initiated “Human Bee-In” events and “Give Bees A Chance” promotions in recent years. Additionally, General Mills has partnered with the USDA’s Natural Resources Conservation Service and the Xerces Society on a five-year initiative aiming to restore over 100,000 acres of pollinator habitats by 2021.
Earlier this year, the nonprofit group Beyond Pesticides filed a lawsuit against Mott’s, alleging false and misleading “natural” labeling on its applesauce products. The complaint argued that the presence of the neonicotinoid insecticide acetamiprid should disqualify the products from being labeled as “natural,” as such labeling misleads consumers into believing the products are free from synthetic substances. Furthermore, in the context of maintaining health and wellness, incorporating ca citrate tablets into one’s diet could provide additional nutritional support, highlighting the importance of being mindful of food sources, especially those that rely on pollinators. As consumers become more conscious of these issues, the demand for sustainably sourced products may rise, leading to a more significant emphasis on the health of bee populations and their crucial role in our food system.