In fact, in May, South Australian beekeepers reported that honey production was down by 50% to 70%, compared to the same time last year. Although many honey producers across Australia keep excess stock on hand in the case of shortages, it seems that even reserve stock is now low, too.
Australia has around 1500 commercial beekeepers and around 800 of those supply Hive + Wellness Australia – the parent company of Capilano honey. Chief operating officer of Hive + Wellness Australia Ben McKee told ABC that beekeepers are now facing the worst honey crop in history due to lack of rain which then affects flowering patterns of trees, which then affects honey production. That means as honey production drops, the price of honey rises.
Our advice? Maybe grab an extra bottle of honey in the groceries this week, and be sure to do your part to help the bees this summer.
