The technology exposes queen bees to inactive bacteria, allowing them to pass immunity to their offspring. This primes larvae against mortality caused by the bacterial disease American Foulbrood.
Impact of Honeybee Vaccine on Colony Health
Field trials in the East Coast and Canada have shown a decrease in viral pathogens such as Deformed Wing Virus with vaccinated colonies.
"Beekeepers across the country are doing everything they can to stay ahead of the curve, but the losses this year have been unlike anything we've seen before," said Chris Hiatt, former president of the American Honey Producers Association.
Proactive Approach to Addressing Honeybee Losses
"What we need are new, science-based tools that give us a fighting chance. For too long, beekeepers have been stuck reacting to disease.
This vaccine flips the script—it's a proactive approach that offers real potential to reduce losses before they start. I'll be experimenting with the vaccine this year with 200 hives through Dalan's Colony Loss Relief Program and am excited to track the results." 2025 has seen a record decline in honeybee colonies, with some nations reporting 70%-80% annual loss rates. Losses have been attributed to viruses, pesticides, poor nutrition, and limited treatment options.
Dalan Animal Health's Role in Honeybee Vaccine Distribution
"The devastating colony losses have created unprecedented challenges for beekeepers and farmers alike," said Annette Kleiser, CEO of Dalan Animal Health. "Our honeybee vaccine technology represents a paradigm shift in honeybee health management. By harnessing the natural process of maternal immune priming, we're providing beekeepers with a powerful new tool that helps address disease pressure and colony loss at its source, without chemicals or antibiotics. We are taking stressors off the table and providing some breathing room for bees and beekeepers."
Dalan has partnered with retailers to introduce the Colony Loss Relief Program, providing support for the purchase of the honeybee vaccine. "As a company, we recognize the immediate needs to help beekeepers who have already suffered devastating impacts," said Kleiser. "Our Colony Loss Relief Program provides a bridge to recovery for affected operations, helping to restore pollination capacity for the 2025 growing season while implementing preventative measures for the future."
