Mexico City's Beekeepers Revive Ancient Traditions with Rare Melipona Honey
In Mexico City, a group of beekeepers is working to preserve ancient traditions while supporting local communities. The Abejas de Barrio collective focuses on melipona honey, a rare product made by native stingless bees that can sell for up to 1,800 pesos per litre. Their efforts go beyond honey production, aiming to reconnect people with nature and train a new generation of beekeepers. The project is based in Xochimilco, where beekeepers tend to hives and produce honey with distinct flavours. Depending on where the bees forage, the varieties range from light mesquite honey to darker, richer avocado honey. Beekeeper Sandra Corales notes that while pale honey sells more easily, dark honey demands the same care and effort.
Every weekend, Abejas de Barrio invites visitors to become 'Beekeeper for a Day'. Participants learn about hive management and taste different honey types. The collective also runs free courses for young people, teaching them traditional beekeeping skills. Beyond education, the initiative supports local families who sell the honey or turn it into candles, soaps, mead, and balms. The work also helps protect the chinampa wetlands, a vital ecosystem for pollinators in the city.
Abejas de Barrio combines conservation, education, and economic support in Mexico City. By promoting native beekeeping, the project preserves cultural practices and strengthens the role of pollinators. The rare melipona honey remains a valuable product, benefiting both the environment and local communities.
