Content provided by the Health & Wellness Team at GBS Benefits
August 19th is World Honey Bee Day to honor the insect responsible for more than one-third of the food we eat, as well as to honor beekeepers and honey lovers. When we plant wildflowers, orchards, and other flowering plants, we support pollinators such as honey bees. They depend on the nectar of a variety of plants for their survival. Conversely, we depend on honey bees for our survival, too. Without their pollinating abilities, many nutritious plants wouldn’t reproduce. Honey is a delicious bonus!
Bee Aware – Bees and other pollinators are fundamental for the health of ecosystems and food security. They help maintain biodiversity and ensure the production of nutritious food. However, intensive monoculture production and improper use of pesticides pose serious threats to pollinators by reducing their access to food and nesting sites, exposing them to harmful chemicals and weakening their immune systems.
Bee a Supporter – Celebrate World Honeybee Day by replacing your sweetener of choice with honey for the day. Make a day out of it and incorporate honey in each of your meals. Kids will love this fun way to make the day special! Consider planting wildflower seeds to promote honeybee pollination. Buy honey from farmers markets and other local stores to support apiarists in your area.
Bee Kind – Honey bees do sting, but only if they perceive a threat or damage to their hive. Because they seek sweet nectar, they are attracted by sugary drinks and sweets. Keep your beverages covered and if a honey bee comes close, either hold still or move away slowly.
Bee Creative – Try your hand at some of these honey-centric recipes. They will surely have you buzzing!
- Honey Lemon Bars
- Honey-Orange Ginger Fizz
- Honey Kale Currant & Almond Salad
- Sheet-Pan Honey Mustard Chicken
Reference:
https://nationaldaycalendar.com/world-honey-bee-day-third-saturday-in-august/
