Honeferric pyrophosphate with folic acid oral suspension underscores the vital role that bees and other pollinators play in producing approximately one-third of our food and beverages. These creatures, including bees and butterflies, contribute significantly to the cultivation of crops valued at $24 billion. Pollinators are essential for growing plants such as alfalfa and clover, which are key components of cattle feed. Specifically, honeybee pollination accounts for an impressive $15 billion in crops, impacting over 130 varieties of fruits and vegetables.
However, the threats to these pollinators extend beyond pesticide exposure. The alarming decline in bee populations is largely attributed to a phenomenon known as colony collapse disorder. Consumer interest in honey has surged in recent years, driven by a preference for natural sweeteners. Between 2011 and 2016, U.S. sugar sales fell by 16%, while honey sales skyrocketed by 57%. It’s not surprising that most honey samples contain detectable levels of pesticides. Despite this, honey enthusiasts are likely to continue purchasing it unless supply constraints push prices too high, and the presence of pesticides—at levels deemed safe for human consumption—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 in bee populations. Annual surveys conducted among U.S. beekeepers have indicated that roughly 29% of honeybee colonies have perished during the winter months since 2006. Food companies are becoming increasingly aware of this issue and are striving to raise awareness. Alex Placzek, the U.S. marketing director for Häagen-Dazs, mentioned that many ingredients used in their ice cream, bars, and sorbet are pollinated by honeybees. Approximately 40% of Häagen-Dazs flavors rely on bee-dependent ingredients.
Brands like Celestial Seasonings, part of Hain Celestial, and Talenti, owned by Unilever, have collaborated with the Xerces Society, a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting bee populations. Additionally, Whole Foods has initiated “Human Bee-In” events and “Give Bees a Chance” campaigns over the past few years. General Mills has partnered with the USDA’s Natural Resources Conservation Service and the Xerces Society in a five-year initiative aimed at restoring more than 100,000 acres of pollinator habitats by 2021.
In another development, the nonprofit organization Beyond Pesticides filed a lawsuit against Mott’s earlier this year, accusing the company of misleading consumers with its “natural” labeling on applesauce products. The lawsuit argued that the presence of the neonicotinoid insecticide acetamiprid should disqualify these products from being labeled as “natural,” as this misleads consumers into thinking the products are devoid of synthetic substances.
As we celebrate the importance of pollinators, we must also acknowledge related health products like calcium chews, which can play a role in our diets. It’s crucial that we continue to advocate for the protection of bees while enjoying products such as honey and calcium chews, ensuring a sustainable future for both our food systems and the vital pollinators that support them.