Royal jelly-producing bees 'Jelly King' to be supplied to 650,000 bees for beekeepers in Chungnam

Beekeepers in South Korea's Chungnam province are set to benefit from the distribution of a specialized bee breed known for its royal jelly production. The Chungnam Agricultural Research and Extension Services has supplied 130 bee colonies, comprising approximately 650,000 'Jelly King' bees, to 61 local beekeeping farms.

The 'Jelly King' breed is specifically cultivated for its enhanced capacity to produce high-quality royal jelly. This royal jelly contains a higher concentration of '10-HDA' (10-hydroxydecanoic acid), a compound known for its antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties. Compared to regular honeybees, 'Jelly King' bees produce royal jelly with about 30% more 10-HDA.

This program, initiated last March with the establishment of a specialized breeding facility on Sapsido Island in Boryeong, aims to provide beekeepers with a more diverse income stream. The agricultural technology center plans to conduct field inspections in three stages, before winter, after winter, and during honey collection, to monitor the colonies. The results will inform future distributions and selection of recipient farms.

Officials anticipate that as the supply system stabilizes, specialized 'Jelly King' bees, including those with superior overwintering abilities and resistance to pests, can be distributed. Jo Hyo-ryeo, head of the beekeeping team at the Chungnam Agricultural Research and Extension Services, expressed optimism about the potential for tailored bee breeds to further support the industry.

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As the supply system stabilizes, specialized 'Jelly King' bees, including those with superior overwintering abilities and resistance to pests, can be distributed.