Cane or dry sugar is one of the worst types of food you can feed your bees, especially during times of desperation when they gather anything they can find.

While feeding bees is sometimes necessary, choosing the right type of food is crucial to keeping your colony healthy and alive.

The Problem with Cane Sugar

Cane sugar, in its dry form, is hard for bees to digest and can actually cause more harm than good.

Unlike honey or even sugar syrup, dry cane sugar lacks the moisture and nutrients bees need to thrive.

When bees consume dry sugar, they often end up dehydrated, which can weaken the colony and make them more vulnerable to diseases.

Desperation Leads to Poor Choices

During times when food is scarce, bees become desperate.

They’ll forage for anything, even sources that aren’t good for them like fermented fruits or anything that has even a tiny bit of fructose.

If dry sugar is available, they will collect it out of necessity, even if it doesn’t provide the essential nutrients they need to survive.

This is particularly dangerous during colder months when the bees’ ability to find natural food sources is already limited.

Why Syrup Is Better

When feeding bees, inverted sugar syrup is a much better option.

The syrup mimics the natural consistency of nectar and is easier for bees to digest and process.

It also provides the necessary hydration they need, helping them stay healthy and active.

While syrup isn’t as nutritious as honey, it’s a safer choice than dry sugar during tough times and it should be used only at times when you plan to extend the laying time of your queens and should never be used as a source of food during winter.

Long-Term Risks

Feeding your bees with dry cane sugar will definitely lead to health issues.

The lack of nutrients can weaken their immune systems, making them more susceptible to diseases like Nosema.

It can also cause stress within the hive, leading to lower productivity and, in some cases, it will lead to the colony’s demise.

Alternatives to Cane Sugar

If you need to supplement your bees’ diet, consider alternatives like:

Sugar Syrup: A simple mixture of water and sugar that mimics natural nectar.

Fondant: A semi-solid sugar solution that provides a more digestible option for bees during winter.

Honey: If you have extra honey from your own hives, this is the best food for bees, as it provides all the nutrients they need.