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Mr M.Lafrance
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Mr M. Lafrance, a beekeeper with over 23 years of experience, offered a glimpse into this sweet world, particularly in the context of Mauritius and Rodrigues.
The Sweet Yield: How Much Honey Can a Hive Produce?
One of the first questions many have is about the productivity of a beehive. According to our expert, the amount of honey produced per hive can vary considerably, ranging from 10 to 20 kg depending on the region. In some favourable areas, yields can even reach 30 to 40 kg. However, it's crucial to note that some regions might not produce any honey at all, highlighting the importance of location for aspiring beekeepers.
It's also important to understand the seasonal nature of honey production. The main season for honey production in the speaker's region starts around the end of February or March and can extend until May, or even June in some areas. Interestingly, some beekeepers can achieve two harvests per year, especially in coastal regions with favourable environments, with exceptions of up to three harvests.
The Shadow of Fake Honey: A Global Concern
The conversation also touched upon a critical issue in the honey industry: the prevalence of adulterated or "fake" honey. This is a significant concern, with even sophisticated techniques in Europe and Australia struggling to detect these fraudulent products. In Mauritius and Rodrigues, there are supermarkets where the honey sold might not always meet quality standards.
He emphasizes its best to buy directly from the beekeepers hives. In Rodrigues, some honeys are mixed, resulting in a product that isn't considered "good" honey, unlike the pure honey obtained directly from the apiaries.
The Mystery of Crystallization: A Sign of Quality?
Many consumers are puzzled when their honey turns solid. Our expert clarified that crystallization is a normal phenomenon and can actually be an indicator of good quality honey. To return crystallized honey to its liquid state, gently warming it beside a heat source that does not exceed 30-34 degrees Celsius is recommended. While honey that doesn't crystallize isn't necessarily bad, crystallization can be a positive sign. It's important to distinguish this natural process from added sugars, as sugars generally do not crystallize in the same way as honey.
Beekeeping in Residential Areas: A Matter of Experience and Caution
The idea of keeping bees in your backyard might seem appealing, but it requires careful consideration. The speaker advised that having a colony in a residential area necessitates significant experience due to the potentially aggressive nature of bees if not handled properly. While in Europe, it's common to find hives in residential zones, in Mauritius, the ministry often suggests that apiaries be located at least 500 meters away from residential areas. However, experienced individuals can successfully manage hives in smaller spaces. For those interested in starting, contacting the apiculture section for training and connecting with experienced beekeepers is highly recommended.
He touched on the traditional method of using smoke to manage bees. The smoke disrupts the pheromone of the queen, which is crucial for the hive's organization. This temporary disruption allows beekeepers to perform manipulations safely, as the bees are preoccupied with clearing the smoke and re-establishing the queen's pheromone.
In conclusion, this interactive session provided valuable insights into the intricate world of beekeeping, from honey production yields and seasonality to the challenges of honey adulteration and the nuances of bee behaviour.