To Bee- L overs
        Regarding multiple recent postings about the use of unapproved and
experimental chemicals on U S and Canadian honeybees, the confusion about
bee feed supplements , and the abuse of approved honeybee medications the
question arises WHO is protecting the health of the U S consumer from
contaminated honey?
        The U S in 1995 imported 40.2 thousands metric tons (88 million lb
of honey from Argentina ,China and Canada to the tune of $47.1 million
dollars at 1995 prices .The 1995 U S honey production was 210 million  lb
(down 3 percent) from 2.65 million colonies down from 1994 count of 2.77
million hives (120,000 hives lost and 110,000 hives lost the year before).
The U S exported 9 million lb.in 1995.
        What are the testing standards of this imported honey ? What are the
testing standards of U S honey ?Who regulates the health and safety of
American citzens as they eat their honey daily ?Does the U S D A or the F D
A  ? Does anyone have some answers ?
           It seems that a multi national panel should be assembled under
peer review to determine whats is and what is not approved regarding the use
of chemicals with honeybees in the production of honey for human
consumption and then testing must be implemented to insure compliance with
the findings.
           Come on U S D A give us some answers .
 
                Honeybees need our help and we need honey eaters.    aloha
PATTON IN PARADISE
 
Walter & Elisabeth Patton,  27-703 A Ka' ie'ie Rd., Papaikou HI.,96781
    Ph./Fax. 808-964-5401       E-Mail  hihoney@ilhawaii
 
Beekeeper and Bed  & Breakfast Owner in Hawaii
 
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