Answer: This myth originates from outdated information regarding the use of oxalic acid by sublimation, a method that involves transforming a solid directly into gas. While sublimation has shown some risks, including possible harm to bees and beekeepers, newer methods are much safer.

Recent studies have confirmed that standardized oxalate solutions, when used correctly, are safe and effective for bees. The drip application method, in particular, is both easy to use and safe for bees and beekeepers. When applied with sugar and other ingredients, the bees’ tolerance improves, allowing better distribution and effectiveness of oxalic acid in the hive.

It's crucial to use only approved products like VarroMed®, which has been thoroughly tested and approved by the European Medicines Agency (EMA). VarroMed® contains a fixed combination of the organic acids oxalic acid dihydrate and formic acid, along with other natural ingredients. This combination helps to further improve bee tolerance.

Research has shown that VarroMed® can be used safely up to 11 times in  7 day intervals without harming bees or queen. Additional studies in Europe have further validated its safety across multiple regions, reinforcing that properly following guidelines ensures the health and vigor of bee colonies.

In summary, oxalic acid can be used more than once per bee generation when using approved, standardized products like VarroMed®, following the manufacturer’s instructions. Always choose certified treatments to ensure the safety and health of your bees.

Answer: While the precise mechanism of how oxalic acid affects Varroa Destructor mites is not fully understood, its effectiveness is well-documented. The challenge arises because oxalic acid cannot penetrate capped pupal cells where some Varroa Destructor mites reside, meaning a single application may not reach all mites. For effective treatment, the acid needs to be maintained at a therapeutic level present in the hive, long enough to target mites as they emerge from brood cells.

In the product VarroMed®, oxalic acid is combined with formic acid and other ingredients to ensure it remains active in the hive throughout the necessary period. Studies have demonstrated impressive efficacy rates for VarroMed®: 88% in winter, 92% in spring, and 85% in fall treatments. Even in colonies with brood, VarroMed® has shown an average efficacy of 84%, with some cases exceeding 90%. 

Research highlights that VarroMed® is highly effective regardless of brood presence, meaning treatment isn't restricted to broodless phases. The key is adhering to the manufacturer's instructions regarding application and repetition to maintain effective concentrations of active ingredients in the hive. Depending on the season, it is recommended to apply VarroMed® at least three times to five times when brood is present to ensure optimal results and bee health. Without brood a single application is sufficient.

For successful varroa management, always use approved, standardized products like VarroMed®, which are designed to ensure the safety and health of your bee colonies.

Answer: This statement is both true and false. In beekeeping, it's crucial to use only registered veterinary medicinal products. These ensure effective and safe treatment for bees, the people applying the treatment, and the environment, including the safety of bee products like honey. According to the new Regulation (EU) 2019/6, these products must be used in accordance with their marketing authorization.

If you're producing honey solely for personal consumption, you're not restricted by food laws. However, if you intend to sell or even just gift your honey, it is legally defined as food for human consumption, requiring the use of authorized products only. Using unapproved Varroa treatments from internet recipes or other unofficial sources disqualifies the honey from being sold. Such practices violate food laws risking contamination of the honey and further the health and vitality of your bee colonies due to the inconsistencies and potential substandard quality of homemade treatments.

To ensure the well-being of your bees and compliance with regulations, stick to approved, standardized products when treating your colonies.

Answer: Understanding the role of formic acid in VarroMed® involves a look at how treatments affect mites during winter. When oxalic acid is applied in late December, it is presumed that no brood is present, meaning all mites are phoretic (on the bees) and should be killed by the treatment. However, prolonged mite fall after treatment can occur due to various reasons: mites may be trapped in cells or combs, or attached to the bees' abdomens and only fall off as they decompose, triggering removal by other bees.

During winter, the low hive temperatures and absence of bee flights reduce the evaporation of oxalic acid, allowing it to remain effective longer than in summer. In warmer months, the high hive temperature, active bee flights, and increased evaporation can reduce the duration of oxalic acid effect.

In VarroMed®, formic acid plays a crucial role by slowing the decomposition of oxalic acid in heat. This interaction prolongs the effective duration of the oxalic acid, enhancing its efficacy in VarroMed®. Therefore, the inclusion of formic acid in VarroMed® is a scientifically grounded decision to ensure the prolonged action of oxalic acid in treating mites.

Answer: The danger associated with oxalic acid often comes from improper preparation and usage rather than the substance itself. Many recipes for oxalic acid solutions found online or in magazines are not standardized, which can lead to incorrect mixing and application by beekeepers. This, in turn, can result in harm to bee colonies and lead to frustration.

Legally, only approved products containing pharmaceutical-grade oxalic acid can be used in the treatment of bees and the production of food for human consumption. Using technical-grade oxalic acid, intended for industrial purposes, can introduce impurities that risk contamination of bee products like honey, wax, and propolis. Such misuse can lead to the confiscation of these products due to safety concerns.

To ensure the safety and health of bee colonies, as well as compliance with food safety regulations, it's vital to use only approved oxalic acid treatments that are specifically designed for beekeeping.