In the UK the NBU recommends cleaning hives tools and gloves with a strong solution of washing soda (1 kg per 5 litres) to reduce the risk of spreading foulbrood. I follow this practice and there is no doubt that it is a very effective way of keeping hive tools and gloves clean, removing both wax and propolis. But I cannot find any reference as to the impact of soda solution (remember this is washing soda - not caustic soda) on EFB bacteria, the vegetative stages of AFB, or AFB spores. Does it simply remove them, or does it kill them? I am sure that it would not kill AFB spores. Anyone have any references?
Best wishes
Peter Edwards
beekeepers at stratford-upon-avon.freeserve.co.uk
www.stratford-upon-avon.freeserve.co.uk/
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