How Can We Make Better Food for Honeybees?
Provided by: Science Journal for Kids|Published on: May 13, 2026|Last updated: September 26, 2026
Grades: 6, 7, 8, 9
Type: Scientific Reports
Subjects: Biology
Authors: Science Journal for Kids
Location: Earth
This resource has been reviewed by SubjectToClimate's climate scientists and verified for scientific accuracy and up-to-date information. Learn about our review process →
This resource has been reviewed by SubjectToClimate's climate scientists and verified for scientific accuracy and up-to-date information. Learn about our review process →
Synopsis
- This article describes a research study in which scientists genetically engineered yeast to produce sterols — essential nutrients missing from commercial honeybee food substitutes — and tested whether this improved food could support healthy honeybee colony development.
- The article includes an audio version, a worksheet, a teacher's key, and links to related resources.
Teaching Materials
Prerequisites:
- Ensure students understand how human activities and climate change have contributed to the reduction in flowering plants.
- Activate prior knowledge by asking students why pollinators matter to food systems and what they think happens when bees cannot get proper nutrition.
Preparation:
- Note that teachers will need to provide some information, such as email and school, to access the Teacher's Key.
Classroom Implementation:
- Prep this as a ready-to-go substitute activity for students to read with a partner or as a class and answer the included question.
- Use this in conjunction with a lesson about the importance of pollinators and the threats they face. Consider using this lesson.
Extensions:
- Have students research native, bee-friendly plants that would be a good fit for a classroom garden.
This resource is an adaptation of a peer-reviewed article that details a project to produce an improved pollen substitute for feeding honeybees. All key findings are highlighted in the text, and a clear glossary of terms is included. The project is connected to climate change in a thoughtful discussion. This resource is recommended for teaching.
Teaching Tips
Standards
Resource Type and Format
Scientist Reviewed
This resource has been reviewed by SubjectToClimate's climate scientists and verified for scientific accuracy and up-to-date information. Our review process ensures that every resource in our library reflects the current state of climate science.
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