Earth: Omega-3 oil may help protect pollinators from pesticides

A groundbreaking study from the Université de Moncton in New Brunswick is providing new insights and encouragement about the potential role of omega-3 rich oils in counteracting the damaging effects of pesticides on pollinators. 

PhD student Hichem Menail led the research indicating that an oil known as Ahiflower® oil may hold the key to shielding honey bees from mitochondrial damage inflicted by neonicotinoid pesticides.

“We believe that this strategy is promising,” said Menail. “By improving their respiration through ahiflower oil supplementation, we believe that mitochondria can increase their ATP production and thus improve overall performance of honey bees, as well as their immune system.”