Beehive frame full honey

A beehive frame full of honey, also called a honey super frame, is the basic unit of honey production in Langstroth hives.

About this subject

The beehive frame full of honey is the central element of modern beekeeping. It consists of a wooden or plastic frame holding a sheet of wax foundation, where bees deposit honey and pollen. In the Langstroth system, invented by Lorenzo Langstroth in 1851, these frames are designed with the "bee space" (precise distance of 6 to 9 mm) to prevent bees from building unwanted comb between frames, making inspection and harvesting easier.

Each frame completely filled with honey can weigh between 2 and 3 kg, and a hive during a nectar flow season may contain 8 to 10 honey frames per super (upper box). Honey is stored by bees in hexagonal cells, the most efficient shape for storage as it maximizes volume with minimal wax use. The color and flavor of honey vary according to the flowers visited: orange blossom honey is light and citrusy, while eucalyptus honey is darker and more intense.

Globally, beekeeping faces challenges such as pollinator decline due to pesticide use and habitat loss. Honey is a natural superfood, rich in antioxidants and antibacterial properties. World honey production exceeds 1.8 million tons per year, with China, Turkey, and the USA as leaders. In Brazil, the southern region stands out, especially the state of Rio Grande do Sul, which accounts for about 15% of national production.

Fun fact: to produce 1 kg of honey, bees must visit approximately 2 million flowers and fly about 150,000 km. The full honey frame thus represents the result of intense collective work and one of nature's most fascinating cooperatives.

Frequently Asked Questions

How is a beehive frame full of honey harvested?

The beekeeper removes the frame from the super, brushes or blows off the bees, then takes the frame to an extractor. The extractor spins the frame, forcing honey out of the comb without damaging the wax.

What is the difference between a honey super and a brood box?

The honey super is the upper box used exclusively for honey storage. The brood box is the lower box where the queen lays eggs and brood develops. Frames in the brood box may contain honey, but they are mixed with pollen and brood.

Can I use plastic frames instead of wooden ones?

Yes, plastic frames are durable and resistant to mold. However, many beekeepers prefer wood because it is natural and allows better moisture regulation. The choice depends on preference and local climate.