While the decline in honey production in Virginia poses challenges for the local economy, it may not immediately affect food manufacturers, as overall U.S. honey production increased by 3% in 2016, according to data from the U.S. Department of Agriculture. Nonetheless, there has been a gradual decrease in production, dropping from approximately 167.9 million pounds in the early 1990s to an average of 106.7 million pounds over the past seven years. In contrast, the demand for honey continues to rise. Although the total U.S. consumption of caloric sweeteners like sugar and high fructose corn syrup has decreased, Americans now consume an average of 1.3 pounds of honey annually, compared to just half a pound per person in 1990. The National Honey Board attributes honey’s growing popularity to its perception as a pure, natural sweetener, especially as consumers increasingly seek authentic ingredients. Additionally, the availability of various honey types has expanded. Honey has also found its way into a diverse array of products, including pastries, ice creams, cheeses, beers, and soft drinks.
The loss of honey bee colonies impacts not only honey supply but also agriculture, as honey bees play a critical role in pollination. Certain crops, such as almonds, rely entirely on bees for successful pollination. The non-profit organization Bee Informed Partnership estimates that 44% of U.S. honey bee colonies were lost during the 2015-2016 period. Honey bees are believed to contribute approximately $15 billion per year to the value of U.S. crop production. Major food manufacturers, who depend on honey and other crops pollinated by bees, have taken steps to support these vital insects. Whole Foods has initiated “Human Bee-In” events and “Give Bees A Chance” campaigns in recent years. Nestlé’s Häagen-Dazs has contributed over $1 million to support honey bee research and education, recently funding the creation of pollinator habitats on an 840-acre almond farm in California’s Central Valley.
However, not all initiatives have been successful. General Mills, the cereal manufacturer, recently announced it would replace the beloved BuzzBee on its Honey Nut Cheerios box with a stark white outline of the character to raise awareness about the challenges bees face. This campaign was accompanied by the distribution of seed packets to encourage people to plant flowers. Unfortunately, the initiative faced backlash after it was revealed that the seed packets included seeds deemed invasive or banned in several states.
In light of these circumstances, consumers looking to buy calcium citrate for their health might also consider supporting local honey producers to help sustain bee populations, as the health of these pollinators is intrinsically linked to the production of honey and the overall agricultural ecosystem. Thus, purchasing honey not only satisfies a sweet craving but also contributes to the well-being of the environment. By choosing to buy calcium citrate and locally sourced honey, individuals can play a part in fostering a healthier ecosystem for bees.