Promoted as a "superfood" by some nutritionists and natural foods suppliers, fresh bee pollen has been touted as a nutrient-dense source of energy, disease prevention and longevity. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration denies most of these claims and does not attribute medicinal properties to bee pollen. Many health-conscious people and fitness enthusiasts, however, use fresh bee pollen for its protein content and antioxidant properties. Proper storage of fresh bee pollen granules can protect them from contamination and conserve their nutritional value.
Nutrition
Bee pollen granules are small clusters of plant pollen held together by the digestive secretions of bees. The granules contain amino acids, carbohydrates and fats, as well as vitamins A, C, E and D. Bee pollen is also a source of B complex vitamins and beta-carotene, a micronutrient with antioxidant properties. Because pollen from certain plants may cause allergic reactions, use caution when trying fresh pollen for the first time and begin by consuming small amounts, advises Malcolm T. Sanford, Ph.D., of the University of Florida's Department of Entomology and Nematology. Bee pollen may also trigger reactions in people who are allergic to honey and bee stings, warns the American Dietetic Association.
Collection
As bees gather nectar from flowers, the pollen from these plants adheres to their legs, where it combines with digestive enzymes to form light brown particles. Beekeepers collect fresh bee pollen from the insects using wire screens called pollen traps. As the bees fly through the screens, the pollen brushes off into the traps. Fresh bee pollen must be harvested frequently to avoid gathering the moisture that encourages bacterial growth. Reducing the moisture of fresh pollen can prevent contamination by substances like aflatoxin, the harmful byproduct of the Aspergillus fungus, according to Sanford.
Storage
In studies conducted by researchers from the Ministry of Agriculture, Livestock and Food Supply in Brazil in 2007, the nutrient content of bee pollen samples was analyzed to determine the effects of moisture, light and temperature on nutrient stability after a year of storage. Researchers concluded that dehydration and refrigeration were important to keep the pollen from fermentation or bacterial contamination over the course of a year. These studies indicate that dehydration of bee pollen and storage in the freezer were the best ways to preserve the granules' Vitamin C, Vitamin E and beta-carotene content.
Suggestions
Some bee pollen suppliers claim that bee pollen in its natural, nondehydrated state is the best source of vitamins and enzymes, but, fresh pollen has a higher risk of bacterial contamination and deterioration caused by moisture, heat and light. If you purchase fresh bee pollen that has not been freeze-dried or treated with other drying processes, refrigeration is essential and protection from direct light is recommended. In the studies performed in Brazil, researchers found that the potency of vitamins in fresh pollen had deteriorated after six months of storage, even if they were refrigerated. Keep bee pollen in an airtight container to reduce exposure to bacteria and fungi.
Precautions
The FDA has not approved the use of bee pollen as a nutritional supplement or medicinal product. Bee pollen can cause anaphylactic reactions in people who are allergic to bee stings or bee products. Consult your health care provider before using bee pollen if you have asthma or have had a serious reaction to honey or insect stings.
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