Eric Ellman wrote:
Dear Eric:
I apologize if I am late answering your request. I am involved with a
research project for treatment of honey bee mites that keeps me occupied
24 hours a day. Nevertheless I am always available to assist with bee
questions.
Regarding your question:
1. I have no knowledge regarding contaminated honey from Mexico. Honey
can be easily contaminated at any geographical location if not handled
properly!
2. I am concerned about botulism (fr. Clostridium botulinum) that
sometimes may show up in honey. The source of Clostridium germs is of
course soil or soil water that contains the germs. Will your water be
available to honey bees at any time? I am wondering about this
precisely because in you area of work, bees might be starved for water
and will seek water from just about any source that they can find, and
believe me they are good at it.
3. I am wondering if mesquite flowers might yield toxic honey. I am
only wondering, not knowing about this possibility. Just a question
mark for you to look into.
Good luck.
Please let me know if I may be of further assistance to you.
Best regards.
Dr. Rodriguez
Virginia Beach, VA