Fondabee vs. Invertbee: Which Bee Feed is Best for Your Hive?
Beekeepers understand that providing high-quality feed is crucial for hive health and honey production, especially during nectar shortages. Two of the most popular bee feed options available today are Fondabee and Invertbee Syrup.
But which one is the best choice for your hive? In this guide, we compare Fondabee and Invertbee to help you determine which feed suits your colony’s needs.
What Is Fondabee?
Fondabee is a high-energy fondant feed designed for bees. It is composed primarily of sucrose and is formulated into a semi-solid, easy-to-consume paste.
Key Benefits of Fondabee:
Easy to Use: Comes in a pre-packaged slab that can be placed directly on the hive.
Ideal for Winter Feeding: Provides a steady carbohydrate source when nectar is unavailable.
Reduces Moisture Issues: Unlike liquid syrups, Fondabee does not contribute to excess moisture inside the hive.
Minimizes Risk of Fermentation: Does not spoil or ferment, making it a safe option for long-term feeding.
When to Use Fondabee:
Winter: When temperatures are too cold for bees to process liquid feed.
Early Spring: If bees emerge from winter with insufficient stores.
Emergency Feeding: Can be used any time a colony is at risk of starvation.
What Is Invertbee Syrup?
Invertbee Syrup is a liquid feed made from enzymatically converted sugar (invert sugar), which closely mimics natural nectar. The syrup consists of fructose, glucose, and sucrose, making it easy for bees to digest.
Key Benefits of Invertbee Syrup:
Rapid Energy Source: The balanced sugar profile allows for quick energy absorption.
Encourages Brood Development: Helps stimulate colony growth during spring and autumn.
Easier Digestion: The pre-digested nature of invert sugar reduces stress on bees’ digestive systems.
Boosts Honey Production: Useful in periods when natural nectar sources are scarce.
When to Use Invertbee Syrup:
Spring: To encourage colony expansion and brood production.
Autumn: To help bees store food before winter.
During Nectar Gaps: If there is a temporary lack of natural nectar.
Fondabee vs. Invertbee
Which Bee Feed Should You Choose?
The best feed for your bees depends on the season and the specific needs of your colony:
Use Fondabee in winter or when a solid, long-lasting food source is needed. It’s particularly beneficial when temperatures are too low for liquid feed to be consumed effectively.
Use Invertbee Syrup when you need a quick energy source to support colony growth. It’s ideal for boosting brood development in spring and preparing bees for winter storage in autumn.
Conclusion: A Balanced Approach to Bee Feeding
Both Fondabee and Invertbee Syrup play essential roles in beekeeping, and many beekeepers use both at different times of the year. Providing the right feed at the right time ensures your bees remain healthy, productive, and resilient throughout the seasons.
At Wyefield Apiaries, we offer high-quality Fondabee and Invertbee Syrup to help UK beekeepers provide the best nutrition for their hives. Browse our bee feed products today to keep your colonies thriving!
By selecting the right bee feed at the right time, you can help ensure your colony remains strong and healthy all year round. Happy beekeeping!
