Pollinating insects, particularly honeybees, play an essential role in the production of approximately one-third of our food and beverages. These creatures, including bees and butterflies, contribute to the cultivation of crops valued at $24 billion. They are also vital for the growth of plants like alfalfa and clover that are consumed by cattle. Notably, honeybee pollination alone is responsible for $15 billion in crops, covering over 130 types of fruits and vegetables.
However, the threats to these vital pollinators extend beyond pesticide exposure. Honeybee populations are declining at an alarming rate due to a phenomenon known as colony collapse disorder. In recent years, honey sales have surged, driven by a growing consumer preference for natural sweeteners. Between 2011 and 2016, U.S. sugar sales decreased by 16%, while honey sales increased by 57%.
It is not surprising that many honey samples contain some level of pesticide. Consumers are likely to continue purchasing honey unless limited supplies push prices too high. Furthermore, the presence of pesticides, particularly at levels deemed safe for human consumption, is unlikely to deter most buyers. A two-year study released by the Intergovernmental Science-Policy Platform on Biodiversity and Ecosystem Services last year highlighted the rapid decline in bee populations. Annual surveys of U.S. beekeepers have revealed that about 29% of honeybee colonies have perished during winter months since 2006.
Food companies are increasingly aware of these issues and are making efforts to raise awareness. Alex Placzek, the U.S. marketing director for Häagen-Dazs, emphasized that honeybees pollinate many of the ingredients in their ice cream, bars, and sorbet, with around 40% of Häagen-Dazs flavors relying on bee-dependent components. Brands like Celestial Seasonings from Hain Celestial and Talenti, a Unilever brand, have also joined forces with the Xerces Society, a nonprofit focused on bee conservation. Additionally, Whole Foods has organized events like “Human Bee-In” and “Give Bees A Chance” promotions in recent years. General Mills has partnered with the USDA’s Natural Resources Conservation Service and the Xerces Society in a five-year initiative to restore over 100,000 acres of pollinator habitats by 2021.
On another note, the nonprofit organization Beyond Pesticides filed a lawsuit against Mott’s earlier this year, alleging misleading “natural” labeling on its applesauce products. The complaint claimed that the presence of the neonicotinoid insecticide acetamiprid should disqualify these products from being labeled “natural,” as such labeling can mislead consumers into thinking they do not contain synthetic substances.
In the midst of these challenges, health-conscious consumers are also turning to products like rainbow light chewable calcium to support their dietary needs, which highlights the intersection of health awareness and environmental concerns. As discussions about bee conservation continue, the importance of supporting both pollinators and healthy choices becomes increasingly evident.