> Does anyone have a proven case of  clinical symptoms of AFB originating
> from foundation ?

Here in Australia there has never been a proven case of AFB attributed to
foundation. This has been discussed at length by beekeepers and apiary
officers for many years.

Possible reasons for not having cases are:-

1.  The encapsulation of the spores in the foundation.

2.  Dilution effect where the spores are diluted to such a state that any
exposed would not be enough to start an infection

3.  It is known that when wax is processed with water, that wet heat will
kill the AFB spores quicker than dry heat.  It seems that the wet heat e.g.
steam, will soften the outer casing of the spore and allow easier killing
than the dry heat which seems to harden the outer casing and thus protect
the inside of the spore.  So if wax is melted in boiling water, then it has
a greater chance of killing the spores.

Trevor Weatherhead
AUSTRALIA
Coming to Apimondia in Melbourne in 2007?

-- Visit www.honeybeeworld.com/bee-l for rules, FAQ and  other info ---