Bee pollen is a natural product that has gained popularity as a superfood due to its numerous health benefits. Despite its recent surge in popularity, there are medical records dating back to 2735 BC that show it has been consumed for centuries.
The success of superfoods lies in the fact that consumers are looking to take preventive measures for their immune health while also seeking out products that provide a new and unique flavor experience. Spanish bee pollen, in particular, has a distinct taste that is sweeter than other varieties and slightly bitter depending on the botanical origin.
Bee pollen comes from the pollen of flowers and is produced in the stamens of the flower, specifically in the antenna. Bees collect it and mix it with nectar and salivary substances to form small granules. They carry it on their hind legs back to the hive, where beekeepers collect it using a pollen trap.
Bee pollen has been referred to as the “perfectly complete food” because of its composition. It contains 19 out of the 21 essential amino acids found in nature, giving it unique nutritional properties. It is composed of simple sugars, proteins, minerals, vitamins, fatty acids, and a small percentage of other components. Some minerals present in bee pollen include potassium, magnesium, calcium, phosphorus, iron, and zinc.
Botanical and Geographical Origins
Spanish bee pollen is internationally recognized for its high quality and exceptional organoleptic properties, thanks to its rich flora.
One of the peculiarities of pollen is its color, which allows us to tell a story through its different varieties. Each color tells us about its botanical and geographical origin.
“41% of global consumers are interested in knowing where the ingredients come from” – Innova Market Insights
As we have observed in the market, consumers are increasingly demanding information about the origin and story behind the ingredients they consume. At HoneyGreen+, we share with our customers the story behind each of our ingredients.
The most common color is yellow-orange, which comes from cistus, steppe, and holm oaks, while the very dark purple color comes from the botanical origin of rockroses.
In the following table, we can see the color varieties found in the multifloral bee pollen from the Iberian Peninsula.
Nutritional and Cosmetic Benefits
- Blood circulation: Due to its flavonoid content, pollen demonstrates the ability to seal and strengthen blood vessels, thereby improving blood circulation and cardiac function.
- Bee pollen has hypolipidemic activity by reducing cholesterol, triglyceride, and total lipid content in the body, which is beneficial for the treatment of cardiovascular diseases.
- It helps prevent dermal infections and acts as a sebum controller. In addition to antioxidant protection, the phenols and flavonoids in bee pollen also provide astringent and soothing properties for the skin.
Download our product catalog and discover all the benefits of this ingredient.
Applications
Among the well-known applications of pollen are functional foods, blends with honey, syrups, or candies. However, its antioxidant, antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and wound-healing properties, as well as its phenolic compounds and selenium content, have allowed it to be incorporated into products such as infusions, capsule supplements, snacks, functional beverages, vials, chocolate, lip balm, and facial cream.
At HoneyGreen+, we offer Spanish bee pollen in different formats, including fresh and dried pollen. We are also working on a powdered pollen format for capsule application. Each format has its organic version with ecological certification.
That’s it! Bee pollen is indeed a remarkable superfood with a rich history and an array of health benefits. Consider incorporating it into your diet and skincare routine to enjoy its nutritional and cosmetic advantages.
Remember, Mother Nature has provided us with incredible resources like bee pollen, and it’s up to us to embrace their potential for a healthier lifestyle.