Bee venom is collected using a device that gives the bees a mild electrical stimulus, causing them to sting a glass surface. The venom dries on the glass and is scraped off.

How collection works

A frame carrying a fine wire grid is placed at the hive entrance or inside. A weak pulse passes through the wires; bees touching them sting the glass beneath.

The sting does not penetrate the glass, so the bee is not killed and can withdraw. This is the essential difference from older methods.

The venom dries within minutes and is scraped off as a powder.

The cost to the colony

This is the most important consideration and the most often understated.

• The colony is left agitated for days after collection
• Foraging falls on collection days
• The whole apiary becomes markedly more defensive
• The alarm pheromone released affects neighbouring colonies

Collection is not carried out while supers are on, or in colonies producing other products, or in weak colonies.

Safety in collection

Dried venom is a fine powder and an irritant.

• Wear a mask when scraping and processing; inhalation is the main risk
• Those working with it regularly are at higher risk of becoming sensitised
• Expect an agitated apiary; full protective equipment is needed
• Warn neighbours before collection days

Handling the product

• Scrape it under conditions that raise as little dust as possible
• Keep it dry; venom is hygroscopic
• Store in dark, airtight containers
• Protect from light and heat
• Record the collection date

Quality

Cleanliness of the glass surface determines purity. Wax, propolis and debris on the plate pass into the product.

Rain and humidity during collection degrade the venom on the plate.

The market and the warning

Venom has a narrow market, and anyone supplying it takes on a responsibility.

Severe allergic reaction to bee venom is possible and can be fatal. Venom application must never be carried out without medical supervision and emergency provision.

A producer who supplies venom should pass that warning on.