Bee bread (Latin: perga ) is a natural fermented product produced by bees from pollen. It is a nutritious, easily digestible substance that bees use as their primary source of protein and other nutrients needed for the growth and development of the young generation of bees and for the production of royal jelly. Bee bread is valued by humans for its exceptional nutritional properties and positive health effects.
How do bees create bee bread?
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Pollen collection
- Worker bees collect pollen from plants and, using enzymes from their glands and saliva, form it into small balls (powders).
- They store these balls in special baskets on their hind legs and bring them to the hive.
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Storing pollen in honeycomb cells
- The pollen brought by the bees is placed in the cells of the honeycomb and compacted with the help of their heads.
- The compaction process is crucial for removing air, which prevents spoilage.
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Adding honey and enzymes
- Bees add a thin layer of honey and enzymes from their glands to the compacted pollen.
- Enzymes trigger fermentation, and honey creates a protective layer that prevents the ingress of bacteria and mold.
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Natural fermentation
- The mixture ferments in the honeycomb for several weeks. During fermentation, the pollen turns into bee bread.
- The fermentation process increases the bioavailability of nutrients, removes any antinutrients, and extends the shelf life of the product.
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Final product: Bee bread
- The result is a darker, slightly acidic and compact substance with a higher nutrient content than raw pollen.
Nutritional properties of bee bread
Bee bread contains numerous nutrients that make it extremely beneficial for bees and humans:
- Protein : essential for cell regeneration and growth.
- Amino acids : including all essential amino acids.
- Vitamins : mainly B-complex (B1, B2, B6), C, D, E and K.
- Minerals : iron, magnesium, potassium, calcium, zinc and selenium.
- Enzymes and bioactive substances : improve digestion and have anti-inflammatory effects.
- Fermented sugars : improve energy value and support intestinal flora.
How is bee bread used?
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For bees
- Bee bread is indispensable for the nutrition of larvae and young bees. It is their main protein food.
- Without bee bread, the development of the bee colony would be at risk.
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For people
- Dietary supplement : Small amounts (e.g. 1 teaspoon daily) are great for supporting the immune system, energy, and overall vitality.
- For athletes : due to the high protein and vitamin content for faster regeneration.
- For digestion : acts as a prebiotic and supports healthy intestinal flora.
Can humans make bee bread?
- Bee bread is a unique product that only bees can make, as fermentation is based on their natural enzymes and the hive environment.
- However, humans can prepare their own nutritious mixture of pollen and honey, which will not be up to bee standards, but is a great alternative.
Bee bread, a thick mixture where pollen is combined with honey.
Great for easy vitamin and mineral intake. It's something special that you should definitely try.
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YOU NEED:
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200 g of pollen
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Chestnut honey
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Empty glass
Add the pollen to a jar of honey. Shake the jar vigorously morning and evening for a week. Make sure it is tightly closed and keep it in a dark place.
We recommend a tablespoon twice a day. For energy in the morning and a peaceful sleep at night.
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Ordering bee bread from us
On our website you can find high-quality pollen, which is the basis for bee bread. More information and ordering are available here:
👉 https://mellifera.si/products/flower-powder