To harvest fresh pollen, beekeepers choose the strongest hives and the most active colonies. Healthy, well-populated hives generally produce more pollen.
They then install pollen traps at the entrance to the hives. These traps are specially designed to allow the bees to enter the hive, but leave behind some of the pollen they are carrying. The bees then get rid of the pollen balls clinging to their hind legs.
Pollen collection :
Over time, bees accumulate pollen on their hind legs as they gather pollen from flowers. As they pass through the pollen trap, some of this pollen is dislodged and falls into a specially designed receptacle inside the trap. This receptacle and collect the accumulated pollen. Now comes the hard part: the pollen has to be properly sorted using tarare. Separate dust and other debris from the pollen, so that you can offer parasite-free pollen!
Fresh pollen storage :
Once collected, fresh pollen is directly frozen to preserve its freshness and quality. It can be used as is, consumed directly as a food supplement or processed into various products. We can make dietary supplements, cosmetics or even pollen-enriched honey. pollen-enriched honey.
Pollen harvesting is always carried out with great care. And above all, with respect for bees and their environment. After all, pollen is an essential source of nutrients for bee colonies and many other animal species. It’s the main food for brood.
The properties and benefits of fresh pollen :
Pollen is often considered a superfood because of its many health benefits. Here are just a few of its potential benefits:
Pollen is rich in nutrients, including proteins, carbohydrates, lipids and vitamins (notably B-complex vitamins and vitamin C). It also contains minerals such as iron, zinc and magnesium. Thanks to these minerals, fresh pollen provides a wide range of nutrients needed for healthy body function.
It also effectively boosts the immune system, as it contains bioactive compounds such as polyphenols and flavonoids, which have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. These compounds strengthen the immune system, protecting the body against damage caused by free radicals.
Some athletes use pollen as a dietary supplement to enhance their sporting performance. Due to its high nutrient content and energizing properties, pollen helps increase endurance. It significantly reduces fatigue and promotes muscle recovery after exercise.
Studies suggest that pollen may have beneficial effects on cognitive functions, including memory and concentration. This may be due to its antioxidant content, which can protect brain cells from oxidative damage.
Although it may seem counter-intuitive, regular pollen consumption could help reduce seasonal allergy symptoms by exposing the body to small quantities of allergens and stimulating the immune system. It’s important to note, however, that pollen can trigger allergic reactions in some people. Caution is therefore advised.
Certain compounds present in pollen, such as enzymes and fiber, promote good digestive health by supporting the growth of beneficial intestinal bacteria and improving intestinal regularity.
Did you know?
Fresh frozen pollen can be thawed several times without deteriorating.
Pollen comes from the Greek and means dust. Without bees, which travel from flower to flower carrying pollen, plant reproduction would not be possible.
