Traditional knowledge and actions of the Pisel Nek-mej (Scaptotrigona mexicana) stingless bee honey production in Cuetzálan, Puebla

Abstract

Objective: During the last few years, the production of honey from stingless bees has become significant, as a result of its therapeutic properties. However, its production and commercialization are limited by the low yield per colony and its high sale price. This study seeks to recover the lore and actions that a group of producers from Cuetzálan, Puebla, Mexico has about the production of honey from the Scaptotrigona mexicana species of stingless bees. The objective was to collect information about the handling, production, and commercialization of tis bee species, as well as the challenges that producers face in the Cuetzálan region. Design/Methodology/Approach: This research was carried out using a qualitative approach. Semi-structured interviews were conducted to gather the information. The participants were chosen using the snowball sampling technique, contacting stingless bee honey producers in Cuetzálan, Puebla, Mexico. Results: The lore about the handling of the stingless bees is passed on from generation to generation. This traditional handling is understood as a cultural symbol. This type of honey is renowned for its medicinal properties; however, its production is scarce, and the resulting product is very expensive. Consequently, the theft and adulteration of honey has become a major problem, creating mistrust among consumers. Study Limitations/Implications: More producers should be interviewed, and additional proof of the handling processes used to identify adulteration should be gathered. This information would be used to develop recommendations that could be applied in other producing regions of the country. Findings/Conclusions: The social and scientific recognition of the properties of stingless bee honey shows the importance of adopting innovations; however, including organizational processes to improve the commercialization channels and to minimize unfair honey production practices is also very important.