Collecting and Processing Pollen
This article is part of our complete guide to Starting Beekeeping in South Africa.
Bee pollen is collected from the legs of forager bees as they return to the hive.
It’s rich in protein, vitamins, and enzymes, making it a popular superfood.
In South Africa, pollen can be harvested and sold in raw or dried form to health shops, wellness brands, or direct customers.
Why Sell Bee Pollen?
- High-value product with health appeal
- Simple to collect using traps
- Complements existing honey or propolis product lines
What You Need
- Pollen trap (fitted at hive entrance)
- Sieve or mesh for cleaning
- Drying tray or dehydrator
- Airtight containers or food-grade jars
How to Collect Pollen
- Install the pollen trap on a strong hive
- Allow collection for 1–2 days per week (rest of the time remove the trap)
- Check daily and remove trays to prevent mould
- Clean out debris, bee parts, or wax
Drying and Storage
- Dry in shade or low-heat dehydrator at 35–40°C
- Avoid direct sunlight – it damages nutrients
- Once dry, store in airtight jars or vacuum-seal
- Shelf life: up to 12 months when stored cool and dry
Packaging and Labelling
- Package in 100g–250g jars or resealable pouches
- Include:
- “Raw Bee Pollen” or “Dried Bee Pollen Granules”
- Net weight
- Harvest date and batch code
- “Not suitable for individuals with pollen allergies”
- Country of origin
- Contact info
Selling Ideas
- Health food shops, apitherapy centres, gyms, and markets
- Add to smoothies, yoghurt, or cereal as a use case
- Offer combo deals with honey and royal jelly
Safety and Quality Tips
- Never collect from hives treated with chemical mite controls
- Keep equipment and hands clean
- Avoid collecting from weak colonies
Final Thoughts
Bee pollen is a protein-rich product that’s easy to harvest with the right tools.
It sells well to health-conscious customers and adds variety to your product range with minimal upfront cost.