Researchers have developed a synthetic, pollen-replacing superfood for honey bees that could improve their health, survival, and pollination services, potentially saving declining bee populations and supporting global food security. The innovation, tested successfully in trials, aims to provide essential nutrients to bees in environments with poor natural pollen sources and is expected to be available in the U.S. by mid-2026.
Scientists have developed a nutrient-rich, pollen-replacing superfood for honey bees that can sustain colonies indefinitely, addressing issues of poor nutrition and colony collapse. This artificial diet, resembling human power bars, provides essential nutrients, including a critical compound called isofucosterol, and has shown promising results in improving bee survival and colony health, potentially transforming pollination practices and food security. The product is expected to be available in the U.S. by mid-2026.