http://science.sciencemag.org/content/358/6359/109

Science  06 Oct 2017:
Vol. 358, Issue 6359, pp. 109-111
DOI: 10.1126/science.aan3684

Abstract

Growing evidence for global pollinator decline is causing concern for
biodiversity conservation and ecosystem services maintenance. Neonicotinoid
pesticides have been identified or suspected as a key factor responsible
for this decline. We assessed the global exposure of pollinators to
neonicotinoids by analyzing 198 honey samples from across the world. We
found at least one of five tested compounds (acetamiprid, clothianidin,
imidacloprid, thiacloprid, and thiamethoxam) in 75% of all samples, 45% of
samples contained two or more of these compounds, and 10% contained four or
five. Our results confirm the exposure of bees to neonicotinoids in their
food throughout the world. The coexistence of neonicotinoids and other
pesticides may increase harm to pollinators. However, the concentrations
detected are below the maximum residue level authorized for human
consumption (average ± standard error for positive samples: 1.8 ± 0.56
nanograms per gram).


From bees to honey

Neonicotinoid pesticides are applied globally. Concern about their impacts
has been increasing as evidence for negative effects on bee health and
persistence has accumulated. Mitchell *et al.* looked at the prevalence of
these pesticides in honey from across the world and found traces in the
majority of samples tested (see the Perspective by Connolly). The
neonicotinoid compounds occurred at levels considered safe for human
consumption, but the contamination confirms the inundation of bees and
their environments with these pesticides, despite some recent efforts to
decrease their use.

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