What is "bee bread"?

"Bee bread" is specifically defined as a mixture of pollen and nectar that undergoes fermentation due to the actions of bees. When bees collect pollen, they often mix it with nectar before packing it away in cells within the hive. The addition of nectar not only provides sugars but also initiates fermentation, which helps in preserving the pollen and making it more digestible. This fermented mixture serves as a vital food source for young bees and is rich in proteins, vitamins, and essential nutrients that promote growth and development.

This distinction highlights the critical role that bee bread plays in the hive, differentiating it from other substances, such as wax, honey, or supplements. While other options may pertain to aspects of beekeeping or the bee's diet, none capture the specific composition and importance of bee bread in supporting the colony's health and life cycle as accurately as the correct choice does.