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Have You Ever Considered Creating Non-Stinging Bees? Learn How to Raise Stingless Bees, A Practice That Is Growing in Brazil and Boosting Sustainable Production

Written by Ruth Rodrigues
Published on 11/08/2025 at 13:08
Conheça os benefícios ambientais e econômicos das abelhas-sem-ferrão e descubra como iniciar sua criação de forma legal e lucrativa no Brasil.
Conheça os benefícios ambientais e econômicos das abelhas-sem-ferrão e descubra como iniciar sua criação de forma legal e lucrativa no Brasil.
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Know The Environmental And Economic Benefits Of Native Bees And Discover How To Start Your Beekeeping Legally And Profitably In Brazil.

The keeping of stingless bees, also known as native bees, is becoming an increasingly sought-after activity by producers and rural entrepreneurs. More than just a trend, beekeeping represents a sustainable alternative capable of generating income, preserving biodiversity, and increasing agricultural productivity.

In Brazil, this practice is gaining strength especially in states like São Paulo, where public policies, technological advancements, and specific regulations are increasing the number of beekeepers and strengthening production.

What Are Native Bees And Why Are They So Important

<p.Native bees, scientifically called Meliponini, are native or indigenous species of Brazil.

Although they have a stinger, it is atrophied and does not serve for defense, which means they do not sting.

These insects live in colonies and play a fundamental role in pollination, being essential to maintaining ecosystem balance.

Moreover, they contribute directly to increasing production in crops, improving the quality and quantity of harvests.

In Rio Grande do Sul, for example, an estimated contingent of 550 million stingless bees is used in canola and carinata plantations, significantly increasing agricultural yield.

Expansion Of Beekeeping In Brazil

The state of São Paulo leads in the organized keeping of stingless bees. According to official data, there are more than 55 thousand hives of 75 distinct species, distributed across nearly 3 thousand authorized beekeeping facilities.

This structure is the result of clear regulations and innovations, such as the development of biotechnological feeds for artificial feeding.

These feeds, produced with pollen and beneficial microorganisms, strengthen the colonies and increase productivity, ensuring that the swarms remain healthy even in periods of lesser flower availability.

How To Start Keeping Stingless Bees?

The first step to starting in beekeeping is to choose the most suitable species for the region.

The book “Beekeeping: The Producer Asks, Embrapa Answers” is an important reference in this process, offering guidance on climate, vegetation, and characteristics of each species.

Another essential point is to acquire the hives only from registered beekeepers, which guarantees the origin and legality of the swarms.

The installation site should protect the hives from excessive sun, strong winds, and natural predators.

Throughout the year, especially in periods of lower natural food availability, it may be necessary to provide supplemental feeding, such as sugar syrups and pollen substitutes, always respecting the needs of each species.

Products And Market Opportunities

The honey produced by stingless bees has a high added value and recognized medicinal properties, making it a sought-after product in the market. But the opportunities are not limited to honey.

Companies are already developing differentiated items, such as sparkling wine made from the honey of these bees, showcasing the versatility and innovation potential of the sector.

Additionally, Embrapa has created modern methods to identify fraud in native honey, ensuring quality and consumer trust.

Sustainability And Regulation

Beekeeping is considered an environmentally positive activity, as it strengthens pollination and contributes to the preservation of species.

However, formalization is mandatory: current legislation establishes that all beekeeping facilities must be regularized by 2026.

This deadline reinforces the importance of adopting good environmental practices and following technical standards that ensure the health of the bees and the quality of the products sold.

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Ruth Rodrigues

Graduated in Biological Sciences from the State University of Rio Grande do Norte (UERN), she works as a writer and science communicator.

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