BeSafeBeeHoney - BeeForward: Exploring Beekeeping Innovations and Science
Background: The European honey market is reported to be in a trou-bling state, far from being considered healthy. A comparison of honey with other food commodities has been conducted to identify specific characteristics of the conducing sector that may provide inspiration for measures to regulate hon y markets. Market indicators: Several general indicators used to describe markets for food production have been analysed to examine the current state of the honey market, offering insight into the primary market challenges or honey-anessential prerequisite developing strategies to address these identified challenges. Variations in market indicators between EU Member States are also presented. Policies related to market indicators: The overarching aim of the European Union, as defined by the Lisbon Treaty, is summarized, alongside a review of some relevant EU and national regulations related to apiculture. Policy me sures previously implemented to regulate certain aspects of other food commodity markets are evaluated for their feasibility in the hon y market. Results and conclusions: It is argued that regulatory me sures could potentially impro e the stability and security of income for beekeep-ers within the honey market. However, there is a risk, or possibly an opportunity, that such measures could drive production towards larger and more professional beekeepers, while smaller, amateur beekeepers may face economic and other difficulties in meeting the stricter regulatory requirements