Innovative Yeast Strain Offers Solution to Honeybee Crisis and Food Security Challenges
Scientists have created a yeast-based supplement designed to save honeybees and improve global food security. The supplement, developed by Oxford experts, uses a genetically engineered yeast strain called Yarrowia lipolytica to produce sterols—essential nutrients missing in artificial pollen substitutes. This yeast supplement provides honeybees with all necessary nutrients, including six sterols, helping them survive without floral pollen. The trial showed colonies fed this supplement reared up to 15 times more viable larvae and lived longer compared to those on standard diets. Researchers believe this could reduce competition among bee species for natural resources and stem wild bee population declines, which are critical pollinators for at least 70% of major global crops like almonds, apples, and cherries. The supplement may become available to farmers within two years after further trials.