Another award for Balparmak's wellness brand, Apitera!

Apitera Pastille, which combines natural honey, propolis, and radish, was deemed worthy of an innovation award!

Balparmak’s wellness brand Apitera’s lozenge, containing natural honey, propolis, and radish, reinforced its approach inspired by tradition with an award, being chosen as “Innovative Pastille of the Year” in the food supplements category in a survey conducted by YouGov Turkey on behalf of Marketing Türkiye.

Istanbul

Apitera's lozenge, one of the innovative products from Balparmak's wellness brand Apitera, was selected as "Innovative Pastille of the Year" in the food supplements category in the "Innovative Products of the Year" survey conducted in collaboration with Marketing Türkiye and YouGov. Apitera's lozenge, containing natural honey, propolis, and radish, stood out in the survey conducted in 12 provinces for transforming a traditional method into an accessible and innovative form suitable for the needs of modern life. The lozenge was developed at the Balparmak R&D Center, inspired by the traditional radish and honey mixture used in Anatolia.

Within the scope of the survey, which was conducted for the 9th time this year, 71 brands were evaluated in 16 different categories. Apitera Pastille, with its natural honey, propolis, and radish content, was among the most innovative products of the year in the food supplements category, standing out with its innovative structure that met consumer expectations. Last year, the brand also demonstrated its innovative approach with "Product Innovation" first-place awards for Apitera Propolis Adult and Children Sprays on leading industry platforms.
Strong innovation inspired by tradition Apitera Pastille, which uses Karakavak propolis, offered a strong example of innovation by combining a traditional method with modern consumer expectations. In addition to its content, factors such as taste balance and ease of consumption were also decisive in the product development process. Thus, Apitera Propolis and Radish Lozenge was offered to consumers in a practical form that can be used at any moment of daily life.
Balparmak R&D and Quality Director Dr. Emel Damarlı said, "In every Apitera product we develop, we aim to support and standardize the value from nature with scientific studies. With Apitera Propolis and Radish Lozenge, we reinterpreted a traditional method with our expertise in bee products and our scientific approach, thus transforming the product we developed into a form suitable for the expectations of the modern age. This award we received is a strong example of our innovation understanding, which we developed by correctly reading consumer needs."
Product approach shaped by consumer insight

The story of a brand

Shortly after its launch, the product received positive feedback from consumers and played an important role in the growth journey of the Apitera brand. The approach centered on consumer insight was decisive in the success of the product.
Balparmak Marketing Director Ilgın Övül Yağız said, "We observe that consumers, while turning to natural and effective ingredients, also seek a practical and enjoyable user experience. It is very valuable for us that this approach, which breaks the perception of 'effective but difficult to consume in terms of taste,' has been crowned with an award. We consider this success as a result of our approach centered on consumer insight."
The Apitera brand continues to offer innovative bee product-based food supplement solutions developed through studies carried out at the Balparmak R&D Center. The product family, enriched with bee products, especially propolis, reflects its focus on innovation in the wellness area with different forms of use.

Research methodology

The "Innovative Products of the Year Survey," conducted by YouGov for Marketing Türkiye magazine for 9 years, was carried out with a total of 1,009 participants aged 18-55 from AB, C1, and C2 socio-economic segments in 12 provinces, primarily Istanbul, Izmir, and Ankara. Participants evaluated 71 brands in 16 categories according to criteria such as innovation, accessibility, and suitability for consumer needs.

We are proud to share another significant achievement in our corporate governance journey.

The work carried out by our Internal Audit Department in a short period has been recognized for its contributions to the effectiveness and efficiency of our processes.

Our organization was awarded the 2026 "Tomurcuk Award" within the scope of the Internal Audit Awareness Awards organized by the Turkish Institute of Internal Audit (TIDE), one of Turkey's leading organizations in the field of internal audit. We would like to thank all our team members who contributed to this valuable achievement, especially Balparmak Internal Audit Leader Onur Kazanasmaz and Balparmak Internal Audit Manager Dorukan Tarman, and we wish to achieve many more successes together.

1. Could you briefly tell us about your brand journey and where you are today?

As Balparmak, we have been playing a pioneering role for many years in the development of beekeeping in Turkey and in ensuring that it receives the value it deserves. Throughout our 46-year journey, science has always been our greatest guide in our goal of finding and preserving what is natural. Since the day we were founded, we have been acting with the responsibility of protecting the labor of bees, the dedication of beekeepers, and the unique balance offered by nature.

2. Could you provide information about your scientific analysis capabilities?

The first step in this approach was taken in 1986 with our first laboratory, established in an area of only 9 square meters. At that time, when honey analysis was not yet on the agenda, our vision of delivering natural and reliable honey to tables formed the basis of our journey to sector leadership today*. Today, with our R&D Center, which operates in a 1600 square meter closed area with a technological infrastructure of 10 million dollars and employs 20 scientists, most of whom are doctoral, we are one of Turkey's first and the world's few centers in the field of bee products. The naturalness of honey cannot be understood by looking at its color, smell, or consistency. Reliable detection is only possible through advanced analyses performed by experts. For this reason, we analyze every honey and its samples that reach our R&D Center for at least 100 parameters. With the database and statistical pre-screening system we created by examining 30 thousand honey samples in the last five years, we have produced an important scientific study for the detection of natural honey. We shared this study with the scientific world at the 7th International Bee Products Symposium in Croatia and received great appreciation. At the 6th International Bee Products Congress in Romania, we presented the methods we developed for determining adulteration and fraud in honey and other bee products. Thanks to our analysis method, which can detect fraudulent honey in just 25 minutes, we were selected to lead the International Honey Commission's "Authenticity and Composition Determination of Bee Products" working group. Turkish Pine Honey is an endemic honeydew honey specific to our country, approximately 95% of which is produced in Turkey, and has high export potential. We found that the classical C4 analysis method used globally gives false positive results in pine honey, and we developed a new C4 analysis method specifically for it. This method, published in international peer-reviewed journals, has been accepted by laboratories worldwide and has also been included and registered in TSE standards. The new C4 analysis method, which has the potential to increase Turkey's pine honey exports by 30%, has contributed to the national economy and protected the labor of our beekeepers. In addition, we are approaching the end of our studies, which have been ongoing for approximately five years, to reveal the functional properties of Turkish Pine Honey. We continue to introduce this valuable product to the world by sharing our results at international congresses.

3. How much of your budget do you allocate to R&D?

According to the Turkish Time Magazine's R&D 250 research, we are among the top 10 brands in Turkey that invest the most in R&D among large food companies. We allocate approximately 4% of our annual turnover to our R&D activities. With the responsibility brought by our sector leadership; we lead innovation in the field of bee products, and we add value to our consumers with completely natural, functional, and innovative products. With new advanced technology that we incorporated in 2022, we can detect sugar syrups, colorants, and additive ingredients added to honey. In addition, our study, in which we deciphered the DNA of Turkish brown propolis and identified 126 new molecules, has opened new opportunities for many sectors, especially health, pharmaceuticals, and food. This study was awarded the "Best Scientific Content Presentation" among 58 presentations from 26 countries at the 4th International Propolis Conference in 2024. We believe that all these successes we have achieved in international scientific platforms are also a source of pride for our country.

4. What is the latest situation in your expansion strategy in America and Europe? How will your entry into the South Korean market change the position of Turkish honey in the global luxury food segment?

As Balparmak, we also have the responsibility to lead the sector in exports. Today, with our Balparmak and Apitera brands; we meet consumers at over 10,000 sales points in 45 countries, including Germany, England, France, Netherlands, Denmark, Switzerland, USA, Hong Kong, South Korea, Saudi Arabia, Jordan, Qatar, and Azerbaijan. Within the framework of our growth strategy in America and Europe; we have taken our place as Balparmak in Metro and Edeka stores in Germany, and in e-commerce, out-of-home consumption, and local sales points in America. In Canada, we meet consumers at over 300 sales points and continue to add new sales points. The Middle East is also one of our focus regions for growth. In addition to our presence in Qatar, Kuwait, Jordan, and Yemen, we are present in the Tamimi, Raya, Othaim, Danube, and Bin Dawood chains in Saudi Arabia. Today, our natural pine and flower honey reaches consumers at approximately 1000 sales points in Saudi Arabia. The South Korean market in the Asia-Pacific region has been a strategic turning point for us. By entering this market with our Apitera brand, we have positioned Turkish bee products not only in the traditional food category but also in a functional, premium, and well-being-oriented segment. Our goal is to make Turkish honey and bee products a global value supported by our strong R&D infrastructure and scientific assurance.

5. You stated that with the Apitera series, you transformed honey from a traditional food into a functional lifestyle product. What will be the weight of this category in Balparmak's total portfolio in your 2026 vision?

Globally, the demand for natural, functional, and supplementary foods is rapidly increasing. There is strong interest not only in bee honey but also in value-added bee products such as royal jelly, propolis, and pollen. In line with this, we have positioned Apitera as Balparmak's "well-being" brand. With our Apitera brand, we offer innovative products focused on consumer needs, and when we examine Nielsen retail data for 2025, we maintain our market leadership position in bee products. We have also been awarded many important innovation awards for products launched recently that focus on consumer needs. Apitera Propolis Children's Spray, developed in collaboration with Balparmak R&D Center and TÜBİTAK MAM, received first prize in the innovation category in the research conducted by Marketing Turkey and YouGov in 2024; and Apitera Propolis Throat Spray received first prize in innovation at the Sustainable Food Summit in 2025. Additionally, Apitera lozenges, containing natural honey, propolis, and radish, which met consumers in 2025, were awarded an innovation award by Marketing Turkey. These awards are the strongest indicators of the importance we attach to innovation. In 2026, we aim for the Apitera brand to account for approximately 10% of our total portfolio with the investments we will make.

6. What share does the functional food market hold in the company's future projections?

The functional food market is one of the most important areas that will strategically grow in our future projections. We have been diligently continuing our scientific research to offer solutions to evolving consumer expectations over the past 10 years. We aim to present stronger data on the effects of bee products on quality of life. Our research, in which we deciphered the DNA of brown Anatolian propolis and identified 126 different molecules, was an important example of this vision. As a result of all these studies, we aim for it to account for at least 30% of our total portfolio.

7. You are carrying out projects to include young people and women in the beekeeping ecosystem to combat the aging beekeeper population, which is the biggest risk in the sector. What is the tangible impact of these social investments on Turkey's sustainable honey production and rural development goals?

Turkey is among the leading beekeeping countries in the world with its rich vegetation and endemic flora. However, climate change, environmental pollution, pesticide use, reduction in nectar sources, and the aging beekeeper population pose significant risks for the future of the sector. Today, the average age of beekeepers reaching 50 is a critical turning point. We approach this situation not only as a problem but as a structural area that needs to be resolved. In line with this, with the Balparmak Beekeeping Academy that we launched in 2018 with the support of the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD), we aim to bring young people and women into the sector and empower existing beekeepers with scientific knowledge. To date, we have reached approximately 8,000 beekeepers. In the last year, with our training programs that attracted approximately 700 new beekeepers, we are rejuvenating the beekeeping profession on one hand, and on the other hand, we are spreading knowledge-based production. At the same time, we contribute to rural development by encouraging the production of value-added products such as bee pollen, propolis, and royal jelly.

8. What are Balparmak's future plans for the development of Turkish beekeeping?

Our future agenda includes making Turkish beekeeping stronger, more sustainable, and more competitive; and bringing innovative and value-added bee products to our consumers. At the same time, with the studies we carry out in our R&D Center, we are moving forward with the aim of becoming a reference "expert institution" both in Turkey and globally. Our priorities include ensuring that our beekeepers receive fair compensation for their labor, preventing unfair competition, and ensuring the sustainability of natural, reliable bee products. To date, we have shared more than 20 scientific studies that we have developed for the detection of natural honey and approved by international authorities with sector stakeholders and the public, ensuring that the labor of Turkish beekeepers reaches the value it deserves. Strengthening the future of the beekeeping profession is also one of our strategic focuses. We continue our training programs to bring young people and women into the sector, support existing beekeepers with knowledge, and increase their incomes. Because we believe that the future of beekeeping is possible with knowledge-based production and the participation of new generations. In the international arena, our goal is for Turkish honey and bee products to receive the value they deserve. We participated as Platinum Sponsors in Apimondia, one of the world's largest beekeeping organizations, in 2017 and 2022. On these platforms, we contributed to sectoral development by sharing 16 scientific project outputs from our R&D team. In 2023, we also hosted the 3rd International Propolis Conference. At the center of our 2030 vision is to position and brand Turkish Pine Honey as one of the best honeys in the world. Thus, we will continue to protect the labor of Turkish beekeepers by increasing the demand for Turkish pine honey.

*According to the Turkey 2025 Nielsen report based on turnover (TL).

Balparmak continues to teach children the importance of protecting nature with its "Think Like a Bee for Nature" project.

Balparmak, in collaboration with Migros and TEMA Foundation, is launching the second phase of its "Think Like a Bee for Nature" project on April 23. As part of the project, children will participate by submitting drawings, and a sapling will be planted for each participant, with the goal of creating a memorial forest of 10,000 saplings again this year.

Istanbul

The second phase of the "World Bee Day" awareness project, initiated by Turkey's leading honey brand* Balparmak in collaboration with Migros and TEMA Foundation, is set to begin. The project, which received over a thousand drawings from children last year, will be held this year between April 23 and May 31. Developed with the aim of raising generations sensitive to nature, this year the project asks children, "If you were an eco-friendly bee, what would you do for the world?" Children will express their thoughts through drawings, donate a sapling to nature through the TEMA Foundation, and also receive surprise gifts.

Bees are among the most special creatures on our planet. With a history much older than human civilization, existing for approximately 100 million years, bees not only produce honey but also ensure the continuity of life. Approximately 80% of flowering plants reproduce thanks to bee pollination, and many fruits and vegetables that reach our tables continue to exist through their hard work. In short: "If there are Bees, there is a Future."

Dreams of little artists will turn into a memorial forest

The second phase of the "Think Like a Bee for Nature" drawing project, launched by Balparmak, which has implemented many projects for the sustainability of honey and bees for 46 years, to increase children's awareness of nature and bees, begins on April 23.

In the project carried out by Balparmak in cooperation with Migros and TEMA Foundation this year, children are asked the question, "If you were an eco-friendly bee, what would you do for the world?" Children are expected to answer this question by drawing their dreams. For every child who uploads their drawings to www.dunyaarigunu.com between April 23 and May 31, 2026, a sapling donation will be made to the TEMA Foundation. As in previous years, the goal is to create a memorial forest of 10,000 saplings on behalf of the children participating in the project within the scope of World Bee Day.

Every child's work is very valuable.

The project is not specifically designed as a competition, and there will be no "first" or "second" place. This is because every child's contribution to this awareness movement is highly valued. All participating children's works will be displayed again this year at www.dunyaarigunu.com. Additionally, all participants will receive packages containing various gifts. The project, which saw over a thousand children participate from all over Turkey last year, is expected to attract significant interest again this year.

Ulaş Altıparmak: "Generations sensitive to nature will save the future"

Balparmak General Manager Ulaş Altıparmak stated that the company has undertaken many projects for the protection of nature and bees since its establishment, and emphasized that children have always been more sensitive in understanding and explaining the importance of bees for the ecosystem. Altıparmak made the following assessment regarding the "Think Like a Bee for Nature" project:

"In every project we have implemented, children have transformed into nature ambassadors taking responsibility for nature. For this reason, we never approach the projects we design for them in a competition format. Because every participation is very valuable to us.

The works of all children participating in the project are displayed on our page at www.dunyaarigunu.com. In addition, we have delivered packages containing various gifts, prepared in cooperation with Balparmak, TEMA Foundation, and Migros, to all children.

We are launching the second phase of our 'Think Like a Bee for Nature' project, which we aim to make a tradition, starting on April 23. This year, we are posing our question to children through 'Eco-friendly Bee,' from our new bee series: 'If you were an Eco-friendly Bee, what would you do for nature?'

We expect our children to share their drawings as answers to this question with us via www.dunyaarigunu.com. Our project will continue until May 31, 2026. Our goal is to create another memorial forest this year with a donation of 10,000 saplings to the TEMA Foundation.

I sincerely thank all our children who touched nature with love by participating in this project and made us feel the importance of bees and life with their drawings, and I celebrate the April 23 National Sovereignty and Children's Day of all of them."

The importance of bees is explained to thousands of children at Balparmak Campus

Altıparmak stated that they have hosted thousands of children at Balparmak Campus in recent years, and shared the following information:
"We have hosted approximately 9,000 children at Balparmak Campus in the last 4 years. In the meetings we held with a pedagogue, we explain how important bees are for the sustainability of life. Because following the path of the bee and nature is not just a business for us; it is also a responsibility and a way of life."

"Eco-friendly Bee" invites children to draw to protect nature

Balparmak Marketing Director Ilgın Övül Yağız stated that they brought the first adaptation of Balparmak's new bee series to life in this project with the "Eco-friendly Bee" character, and said:

"We care about raising individuals who connect with nature, realize the value of bees, and understand and embrace this world. Because real impact occurs when we can leave love and awareness for nature and bees in the hearts of children. For this reason, we are carrying our new bee series, inspired by bees, not only to our products but also to our projects that touch society. In the coming period, we aim to grow this approach by carrying it to various communication areas."

*Based on revenue (TL) according to the Turkey 2025 Nielsen report.

• Balparmak, Turkey's leading honey brand*, was honored with the "Export Champion in Bee Products Category" award by the Istanbul Seafood and Animal Products Exporters' Association for its outstanding performance in honey exports in 2025.
• The brand, which exports to 45 countries including the UK, France, Switzerland, Denmark, Norway, and the USA, continues its global growth through new collaborations in these markets.
• Balparmak contributes to Turkey's expertise in honey and other bee products through new analysis methods developed at the Balparmak R&D Center, particularly pioneering the registration and global recognition of Turkey's unique pine honey as "Turkish Pine Honey."

16.04.2026 / Istanbul

The global honey market has exceeded $9 billion with a production volume of 1.8 million tons. While the market is expected to continue its growth momentum and surpass $14 billion by 2031, Turkey also stands out with approximately 9.3 million bee colonies and 97 thousand tons of honey production.

Balparmak, Turkey's leading honey brand, pioneers the global acceptance of natural Turkish honey through the new analysis methods it develops. Expanding its export network in 2025 as in 2024, the brand currently exports to 45 countries, including the UK, France, Switzerland, Denmark, Norway, Saudi Arabia, and the USA, strengthening its position in these markets.

In the export performance evaluation conducted yesterday by the Istanbul Seafood and Animal Products Exporters' Association (İSHİB), which operates under the Turkish Exporters' Assembly (TİM), Balparmak ranked first in the bee products category. At the award ceremony held at the Turkish Exporters' Assembly headquarters, Murat Ağırbaş received the award from Müjdat Sezer.

The registration of Turkish Pine Honey increases our export potential

In his speech after receiving the award, Murat Ağırbaş said, "Receiving this valuable award this year, as in the previous year, is not only an indicator of our success; it is also a strong confirmation of the sustainable success we have achieved in our export journey. At the heart of our future vision is to establish Turkish Pine Honey as one of the best honeys in the world and to brand it. Additionally, we aim to reach more countries with our value-added bee products and to enhance Turkey's global brand value in apiculture."

Strengthening exports in global markets, new targets in value-added products

Ağırbaş noted that Balparmak sends its products to a wide geography, from South Asian countries, especially China, to the USA, from Middle Eastern countries to the Balkans, stating, "The availability of our products on TJ Mall, one of China's leading e-commerce platforms, our launches in retail chains in Hong Kong, and our collaborations in South Korea are important steps in this growth. Our goal is not only to increase honey exports but also to make Turkey a stronger player in the global bee products market with high value-added products such as propolis and royal jelly. In this direction, through the studies we conducted at our R&D center, we have contributed significantly to the international community by revealing the scientific basis of black poplar propolis.

Ağırbaş emphasized that Balparmak aims to open up to new markets and strengthen its export channels in the coming period, and that they will continue to contribute to Turkey's export targets with innovation-focused investments. Ağırbaş said, "I sincerely thank all my colleagues, business partners, and our consumers who trust us for their efforts in this success. We will continue to carry Turkey's values to the world and write new success stories."

*Turkey market total honey category 2025 according to Nielsen Report based on Revenue (TL)

About Balparmak

Balparmak, which differentiates itself with the quality standard it offers to its consumers and works with the mission of preserving the naturalness of honey and bee products to elevate them to their highest value, leads the sector in this sense. Balparmak, which works according to international standards in food safety, also has international food safety system certificates such as FSSC 22000 (Food Safety System Certification) and BRCGS (British Retail Consortium Global Standards). Balparmak, which has Turkey's first R&D Center in the field of honey and other bee products, and the 8th in the food sector; thanks to its Honey and Other Bee Products Research and Quality Control Laboratory accredited by TÜRKAK, analyzes the products it offers to its consumers in at least 100 parameters.

Balparmak's new product line, inspired by bees, is now on shelves

New product series from Balparmak: Choose your bee character, personalize it, and share it with your loved ones!

Balparmak creates small moments of motivation that we all need during the day with its new bee characters designed for the Çıtkapak series.

Bees are among the rare creatures that have existed for approximately 100 million years... These magnificent creatures inspire us all with their diligence, resilience, ability to divide labor, and talent in ensuring the continuity of life. So much so that, to appreciate someone and highlight their good qualities, we often use bee-related phrases... "As diligent as a bee," "As useful as a bee," "As productive as a bee."

Balparmak*, Turkey's leading honey brand, also created a special bee character series inspired by bees for both April 23rd National Sovereignty and Children's Day and World Bee Day. The new bee characters, to be used in Balparmak Çıtkapak packaged products, cater to the small but feel-good motivational moments people need during the day. Addressing those who feel iconic or courageous at times, the bee series offers a character-focused, different experience that turns the product into an enjoyable sharing moment.

Balparmak Marketing Director Ilgın Övül Yağız stated that while developing the series, they initially focused on the world of children; however, the bee series also resonated with young people and adults. Yağız said, "People of all ages need small but genuine motivational moments during the day. At this point, we wanted to turn our product into a motivational space for everyone. We designed phrases like 'You're inspiring,' 'You're a genius,' 'You're brave,' 'You're a star' as messages that everyone can adopt according to themselves and their current feelings. Additionally, consumers can personalize this experience by writing their name and message on the packaging of their chosen character; they can take it a step further by sharing it with their loved ones. What excites us most is that it is a series that appeals to everyone."

We aimed to offer a world that makes Balparmak lovers feel the richness of the bee

Yağız noted that with the new bee series, they aimed to create a world that makes all Balparmak Lovers, especially children, feel the bee, nature, and the richness they offer. She continued: "We attach importance to raising individuals who connect with nature, love bees, realize their importance, and adopt this world by understanding it. We believe that the real impact emerges only when we can create lasting love and awareness for nature and bees in children. Additionally, with this campaign, we aim to offer a family-friendly experience for parents who prefer honey as a natural food. It is valuable for us that children, parents, and everyone who considers themselves a part of this experience enjoys it.

We make children love bees and explain their importance in nature

Ulaş Altıparmak, General Manager of Balparmak, stated that the new bee series is part of Balparmak's long-term brand approach. He said, "Bees, one of the miracles of the ecosystem, not only contribute to vital sustainability but also create significant economic value for the world and contribute to a comfortable life with functional products such as royal jelly and propolis. As Balparmak, we carry the inspiration we receive from bees not only to our products but also to our awareness campaigns for social benefit and our future vision. We consider our new bee series as an outcome of this understanding."

The First Communication for the New Series Was Made with a Special Project for World Bee Day

Altıparmak stated that the first communication of the new series was made with the "Think Like a Bee for Nature" Painting Project, which they implemented for children within the scope of "World Bee Day." He continued: "As Balparmak, we have been implementing many projects to protect natural honey and bees for 46 years. Under the umbrella of Balparmak Beekeeping Academy, we have provided training to over 8,000 beekeepers, mostly women and young people. Since 2018, we have been conducting awareness projects that draw attention to the vital importance of bees for the ecosystem.

Children's Imagination Turned into Saplings on World Bee Day

Altıparmak continued by explaining that they continue to transform children's creativity into contributions to nature with important awareness projects they implement every year within the scope of "World Bee Day": "The United Nations General Assembly declared May 20th as World Bee Day in 2017 to draw attention to the vital importance of bees for life. Based on this understanding, we carry out social awareness campaigns every May 20th with civil society organizations and private sector collaborations, drawing attention to the importance of bees for our world. Last year, on World Bee Day, we implemented the "Think Like a Bee for Nature" Painting Project in cooperation with TEMA Foundation and Migros. Within the scope of the project, we asked children, 'What would you do to beautify the world if you had the power of 60,000 bees?' and asked them to share their answers with their paintings. Over 1,000 of our children participated in this call. Today, we are happy to share our painting exhibition featuring the valuable works created by our children's imagination. You can enjoy visiting our painting exhibition on our page www.dunyaarigunu.com.

Our main goal with the project was to encourage children to generate ideas for protecting nature and bees, and to support them in owning these ideas. At the same time, thanks to this meaningful work where every submitted painting turned into a sapling, we made a concrete contribution to nature while also supporting the upbringing of individuals with high environmental awareness in the future. We believe that everywhere there are children, it becomes more beautiful. That's why this project became much more meaningful and full of hope.

Box: Ulaş Altıparmak

"Eco-Friendly Bee" Starts a New Era: Altıparmak emphasized that children are always more sensitive about understanding and explaining the importance of bees for the ecosystem. He said, "In every project we carried out, they transformed into small nature ambassadors who took responsibility for nature. Therefore, we never consider the projects we design for them in a competition format. For us, the contribution of every child is equally valuable. For this reason, the work of all children participating in the project is exhibited on our page www.dunyaarigunu.com... In addition, all children will be sent a package containing various gifts from Balparmak, Tema Foundation, and Migros. We are launching the second 'Think Like a Bee for Nature' project, which we aim to make traditional, on April 23rd. This year, we are asking our question to children through 'Eco-Friendly Bee' from our new bee series: 'If you were an Eco-Friendly Bee, what would you do for nature?' We expect our children to share their answers by drawing a picture on our page www.dunyaarigunu.com. Our project will continue until May 31, 2026. Our goal is to create a new memorial forest with 10,000 saplings this year as well."

In 4 years, we explain the importance of bees to nearly 9 thousand children with a pedagogist

Altıparmak also reminded that they have hosted nearly 9,000 children at Balparmak Campus in the last five years. He said, "We explain to them, with a pedagogist, how important bees are for the sustainability of life. Because following the path of the bee and nature is not just a job for us; it's a responsibility, a way of life."

*Based on sales (TL) according to the 2025 Nielsen Report for the total honey category in the Turkish market

Balparmak, which has focused on sustainability, science, and innovation in the field of honey and bee products for 45 years, received the first-place award in the Product Innovation Category at the Sustainable Food Awards ceremony of the 11th Sustainable Food Summit. Apitera Propolis Adult Spray, developed in collaboration between Balparmak R&D Center and TÜBİTAK Marmara Research Center (MAM), won this prestigious award with its scientifically based formulation and innovative approach.

The 11th Sustainable Food Summit, organized this year in cooperation with the Sustainability Academy and the Turkish Food Industry Employers' Association (TÜGİS), brought together leaders from the food industry, technology, science, investment, and civil society. Under the theme "Transformation for the Future of Food," the summit discussed innovative approaches and collaborations developed for a more equitable, resilient, and healthy food system; within the scope of the summit, projects that made a difference with a focus on sustainability were honored with the Sustainable Food Awards.

Balparmak received first place in the Product Innovation Category with its Apitera Propolis Spray product at the summit, where awards were given in 13 different categories. The throat spray containing propolis and essential oils, developed in collaboration with the Balparmak R&D Center and TÜBİTAK Marmara Research Center (MAM), was honored with an award on this important platform, once again demonstrating Balparmak's scientific R&D strength and innovation-oriented vision in the field of honey and other bee products.

Ulaş Altıparmak: “The Apitera product family is a concrete reflection of our R&D and innovation vision.”

Balparmak General Manager Ulaş Altıparmak expressed the brand's R&D and innovation focus with these words: “At the heart of Balparmak's 'from hive to table' approach, adopted since its establishment, lies reliability, sustainability, transparency, and traceability. Scientific studies conducted in our R&D Center and the innovative products we develop form the basis of this approach. The first-place award we received in the Product Innovation Category within the scope of the Sustainable Food Awards was a valuable reflection of this journey,” he said, emphasizing that the Apitera product family, especially Apitera Propolis Spray, is a concrete reflection of Balparmak's claim in R&D and innovation.

Dr. Emel Damarlı: “We combine scientifically proven ingredients with balanced formulations.”

Dr. Emel Damarlı, Balparmak R&D and Quality Director, who was among the speakers at the summit, emphasized that Balparmak develops functional foods and bee products by supporting them with scientific research. Stating that the first-place award won with Apitera Propolis Spray is a strong indicator of the importance given to R&D and innovation, Damarlı stated that this success reveals the contribution of correct scientific collaborations to the sustainable food ecosystem.

Damarlı stated that Apitera Propolis Adult Spray was developed based on black poplar propolis and essential oils, and said that multidisciplinary studies carried out in cooperation with Balparmak R&D Center and TÜBİTAK MAM are behind the product.

Underlining that Balparmak's R&D approach goes beyond the product content, Damarlı said, "In the product development studies carried out at the Balparmak R&D Center, not only the naturalness of the ingredients but also their quality, standardization, reliability, and effectiveness are meticulously handled. In this context, black poplar propolis, which is included in the Turkish Pharmacopoeia, is used in the products we develop, and standard product production is ensured by scientifically analyzing the active ingredients of the natural components in our products.

Naturalness and Innovation: Balparmak

Balparmak operates with the mission of elevating honey to its deserved highest value. The brand, a pioneer in the industry, combines its commitment to beekeeping with science and technology, shaping the future through digital transformation, traceability, advanced laboratory studies, and sustainability-focused projects. Under the leadership of General Manager Ulaş Altıparmak, Balparmak exhibits a strong vision that protects both producers and consumers in many areas, from beekeeping education to scientific combat against imitation and adulteration, from innovative packaging solutions to social responsibility projects.

Could you briefly tell our readers about yourself, your education, and your professional background?

After graduating from Sabancı University with a degree in Management Sciences, I completed my academic journey by attending the Master of Business Administration program at Bilgi University. I have always strived to develop the strategic and analytical perspective I gained during my education at every stage of my career. I started my professional career as a Merchandiser at Altıparmak Gıda. Over the years, I took on responsibilities in various fields such as sales, business development, project, and field operations, actively participating in many critical functions, from structuring alternative sales channels to managing direct sales teams, from field coordination to collaborations with national chains. I specifically led corporate transformation projects focused on digitalization, new channel strategies, organizational efficiency, and sustainable growth. During this process, I played a role in both strategic planning and implementation phases, bringing various initiatives to life that supported the company's progress. Today, as the General Manager of Balparmak, I prioritize preserving our strong values while carrying the legacy of a 45-year-old brand into the future and managing its transformation with an innovative perspective. We advance Balparmak's sectoral leadership every day with our understanding of continuous development and our commitment to naturalness. We draw our strength from nature and our inspiration from the perfect order that bees patiently build. Our inclusion in the "Second 500 Largest Industrial Enterprises" list announced by the Istanbul Chamber of Industry (ISO) is a natural result of our 45 years of effort, our vision intertwined with beekeeping, and our sustainable production power.

How has Balparmak developed since its establishment, what changes have you observed in the beekeeping sector in Turkey during this period, and how have you adapted to these changes?

Our journey, which began in 1980 under the leadership of Özen Altıparmak, became Turkey's best-selling honey brand in its 9th year. We have maintained our sector leadership for 36 years. Over the past 45 years, many significant developments have occurred in the beekeeping sector. Among the most prominent issues are the aging of the beekeeping profession and the problem of imitation and adulterated honey. In our country, beekeeping is a ancestral heritage. The transmission of the family-run beekeeping profession from generation to generation and the continued livelihood of families from beekeeping are of great importance for the sustainability of the profession. Dedicated beekeepers who perform their profession properly have to compete with fraudulent products in the market; this leads to both income loss and a decrease in motivation for the profession. Today, the beekeeping profession is no longer preferred by young people, and the profession is gradually aging. In 2018, we established the Balparmak Beekeeping Academy and initiated efforts to bring women and young beekeepers into the sector. Thanks to the technological investments we made in our Balparmak R&D Center and the advanced methods we developed with our team of 20 expert scientists, we can detect honey fraud in 25 minutes using our advanced detection methods. Additionally, with our "Where Does This Naturalness Come From?" traceability project, we ensure that our consumers can access natural honey with confidence. Through a special QR code placed on our Balparmak products, we enable our consumers to transparently see that the product they take home and put on their table is natural, meets all quality standards, from which region it comes, and the plant flower source of the pollens it contains. Thus, all that remains is for them to enjoy our product with pleasure and peace of mind. We consider all these efforts a requirement of our 45 years of sector leadership and our responsibility towards our consumers. We are determined to continue this service, which we launched under the scope of Reliable Food, to protect consumer trust.

What practices does Balparmak implement regarding sustainability and the protection of natural resources? What methods do you use to minimize the environmental impacts of your beekeeping activities?

We start our sustainability efforts from the very foundation, namely the supply chain processes. In every step we take, we aim to prepare our sector for the future by considering not only environmental but also social impacts. The Balparmak Beekeeping Academy, established in 2018 with the support of the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD), was launched with the vision of creating a lasting transformation in the sector beyond the classical understanding of education. We specifically aim to bring women and young people into the beekeeping profession. Because we know that this profession can only be sustainable with an inclusive structure. Research also supports this: the active role of women in agriculture and food production creates positive impacts not only economically but also socially. Sustainability for us is not limited to being environmentally friendly. It also means increasing quality, raising standards, and bringing innovation to the sector. We believe that beekeeping should not be limited to honey production, and by supporting the production of high value-added bee products such as pollen, propolis, and royal jelly, we both offer additional income opportunities to beekeepers and increase sectoral diversity. This makes beekeeping attractive and contributes to the national economy. Through the training we provide within the scope of the Beekeeping Academy, we raise awareness among beekeepers on topics such as colony management, bee diseases and climate crisis combat, honeybee health, and modern beekeeping techniques training. As Balparmak, we work to prevent all kinds of counterfeiting in bee products to protect consumers and beekeepers, and we develop innovative and comprehensive analysis methods with our advanced R&D power. To protect the naturalness of honey and the labor of beekeepers, we fight seriously against all kinds of honey fraud. We analyze the honey that comes to our facility for at least 100 parameters in our APİLAB Quality Control Laboratory, which is the first and one of Europe's most comprehensive four equivalent laboratories in the field of honey and other bee products in Turkey. With our laboratory, which provides product traceability, improves food safety and quality standards, and conducts innovative studies, we support responsible production processes. We only package products that we are sure of their naturalness and purity with Balparmak assurance and present them to the tables of Balparmak Lovers. According to the R&D 250 Survey of Turkish Time Magazine, we are one of the top 10 brands investing the most in R&D in the food sector. Our R&D journey, which started in a small 9-square-meter laboratory in 1986, has today turned into an R&D center of 1,607 square meters, where 20 scientists, most of whom are PhDs, work and sign studies accepted on international scientific platforms. Our new packaging facility, operational as of 2025, is a concrete reflection of our sustainable production (packaging) approach. We measure our carbon footprint and work on solutions to increase water and energy efficiency. Here, we not only package but also undertake environmental responsibility. We are building a packaging model that puts less burden on nature and uses resources more consciously. On the occasion of World Bee Day, with our "Think Like a Bee for Nature" project, implemented in cooperation with Migros and TEMA Foundation, we aimed to increase children's love for nature and their awareness of the vital role of bees on the ecosystem. Within the scope of the project, we asked children to answer the question "If you had the power of 60,000 bees, what would you do to make nature more beautiful?" by drawing pictures. These pictures were transformed into saplings with tree donations made to the TEMA Foundation, creating a memorial forest that will be a breath of fresh air for the future. Thus, we aimed to provide children with the experience of contributing to nature at a young age and to contribute to their growth with a consciousness of sustainability. By the end of 2026, we aim to publish our first Sustainability Report, transparently presenting all our efforts. This report will not only be a summary of our sustainability efforts but also an indicator of our future commitments. As Balparmak, we aim to add value to society and the environment in line with food safety, ecological balance, and economic sustainability by implementing sustainable production and consumption principles.

Your product range is extremely wide; what factors come to the forefront in your new product development processes? How do consumer needs, market trends, and scientific research affect these processes?

Today, taking into account consumer habits and rapidly changing lifestyles, we are developing much more practical, easy-to-carry and use, and waste-preventing packaging solutions. Because today's consumer is more involved in life than in previous periods and seeks quick solutions. We adapt to this new lifestyle by making honey more accessible and easier to consume. Here we are talking not only about packaging but about a value approach. A honey bee can produce only about the tip of a teaspoon of honey in its lifetime. We believe that this ancient product, older than human history, should reach its deserved value and every drop should be protected. Our packaging, developed with this awareness, provides ease of use with its hygienic structure that prevents honey from spilling. Especially with our KatlaBalla product, we offer honey in single-use practical packaging, providing portability and easy consumption. Our other innovative solution, Çıt Kapak, also offers the possibility of consuming a larger amount of honey hygienically and practically with its easy-to-carry feature. In our good living brand Apitera product family, we offer functional solutions based on consumer needs at our R&D Center. For example, by preserving the powerful content of Apitera Propolis Throat Spray for adults, we developed Apitera Propolis Children's Spray in a new form suitable for children's taste sensitivities. This product, which combines the natural protective effects of honey, propolis, and apple cider vinegar, was developed in cooperation with our Balparmak R&D Center, one of Europe's four most advanced equivalent honey and bee product laboratories accredited by TÜRKAK (Turkish Accreditation Agency), and TÜBİTAK MAM. Apitera Propolis Children's Spray stands out as a natural ingredient that supports the immune system with the scientifically proven antiviral and antibacterial properties of propolis. Apitera Propolis Children's Spray, one of the important products in the series, was selected as the "Most Innovative Product of 2024" in a research conducted in cooperation with Marketing Türkiye and YouGov. Additionally, according to the Consumer Feedback Survey conducted on the denebunu.com platform with 1,518 mothers from 73 provinces, "9 out of 10 mothers who tried it recommend Apitera Propolis Children's Spray." With these products, which are a concrete indicator of the importance we attach to innovation, we bring traditional honey and bee products to modern life with innovations designed to meet its needs. In short, we strive to present the labor of the bee, the balance and sustainability of nature, combined with the power of science, in the most accurate way to human life.

Do you conduct scientific research on the benefits of bee products? If so, how do the results of this research influence your product development and marketing strategies?

Recently, interest in honey and high value-added bee products has been increasing worldwide. Numerous scientific studies are being conducted to understand the benefits of honey and other bee products such as propolis, royal jelly, and pollen, and significant articles are being published in this field. As Balparmak, we mobilize all our knowledge and technological infrastructure to protect, develop, and sustain propolis, one of nature's most valuable gifts to humanity, as part of a good life. In our research conducted at the Balparmak R&D Center, we detected 126 different molecular properties in brown propolis (black poplar). Such a comprehensive study was conducted for the first time in the world. This finding will provide a significant development for many sectors, from health to medicine and food. Our team is now preparing for the clinical study process. The types of effects shown by which components of the identified molecules will emerge from these studies. We shared the outputs of this study, in which we extracted the DNA of propolis, with the scientific community at the 4th International Propolis Conference held in Sao Paulo State, Brazil. At the conference, where 54 scientific presentations were made from 24 countries, the presentation by Dr. İsmail Emir Akyıldız, Analytical R&D Manager of Balparmak R&D Center, surpassed the other 54 presentations and was awarded "The Most Successful Scientific Study in the Field of Propolis" by the University of Sao Paulo, Brazil, which has the most scientific publications on propolis in the world. This award is an important indicator that confirms Balparmak's scientific competence and the importance it attaches to innovation at an international level. It also contributes to our goal of increasing Turkey's global competitiveness in the field of propolis. As we continue our efforts to make our country stronger in this field, we will continue to support sustainable growth in the sector by encouraging beekeepers to produce according to international standards.

How does Balparmak contribute to the development of the beekeeping sector in Turkey? What are your training programs, technical support, or other supportive activities for beekeepers?

As Balparmak, we view beekeeping not only as a production activity but also as a strategic area that preserves ecological balance, generates social benefits, and serves sustainable development. With this vision, we have created a scientific, multi-faceted, and inclusive support model to strengthen the beekeeping sector in Turkey. With the Balparmak Beekeeping Academy, which we launched in 2018 with the support of the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD), we aim to bring not only honey producers but also well-equipped, conscious, and knowledge-empowered beekeepers to the sector. To date, we have reached over 7,000 beekeepers, and we continue our face-to-face training in 2025. Our training covers various topics, from bee biology and colony management to bee diseases and treatment methods, from queen bee production to the production of value-added products such as royal jelly, pollen, and propolis, from legal regulations to awareness against adulteration and counterfeiting. Beyond this academic framework, we also run special programs to bring women and young people into the sector. Because the future of the beekeeping profession should be shaped by an inclusive understanding that encompasses not only today but also tomorrow. As Balparmak, we know how valuable the honey produced by a honey bee during its lifetime, which is about the tip of a teaspoon, is, and we deliver natural honey to consumers in innovative packaging that prevents waste. Protecting and introducing pine honey, one of Turkey's most valuable natural products, to the world is also among our primary goals. 92% of the total global pine honey yield occurs in Turkey, and we played an active role in the "geographical indication" registration of this valuable product. While making significant contributions to the geographical indication process carried out under the leadership of the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), we scientifically demonstrate the functional properties of pine honey within our R&D center. These studies are appreciated not only domestically but also internationally. As a result of the studies conducted at the Balparmak R&D Center, we achieved an important first in the sector with the new C4 analysis method we developed specifically for Turkish pine honey. This new method, developed for pine honey that cannot be analyzed in the same way as flower honey, was published in international peer-reviewed journals, accepted by European laboratories, and registered by Balparmak's initiative by being included in TSE standards. This scientific success has the potential to increase Turkey's pine honey exports by approximately 30 percent. We see our work as a responsibility beyond a commercial activity. Consequently, we are investing not only in the past but also in the future of the beekeeping profession. We empower our beekeepers and guarantee the delivery of natural and reliable honey to consumers.

What are your future goals? Could you provide information about the company's growth strategies, plans for entering new markets, and its vision in the bee products sector?

As Balparmak, we are Turkey's leading natural honey brand.* We are among the top 10 brands in the bee products category globally, guiding the sector as an institution considered a reference in this field on a global scale. We have even reached the point where we export analysis methods to the sector. As an indicator of the importance we attach to science and innovation, we have invested over 10 million dollars in our R&D center to date. Our work entirely involves selecting natural bee products, which are miracles of nature, in the light of science and ethical values. With this continuous business model, we act with the vision of being a deeply rooted and sustainable institution in organizational and cultural terms as well. With the awareness of the labor extending from nature to the bee, to the beekeeper; our innovative packaging that prevents waste is another concrete reflection of our vision in this context. As of today, we represent Turkish honey in a wide geography extending from America to Australia, from Canada to Hong Kong. To date, we are actively present in 43 countries, autonomous and free zones; we lay strong foundations by developing permanent strategies for each. When entering new markets, we not only demonstrate our presence but also go beyond honey being a breakfast product. We take a broader place in the culinary culture of countries. As Balparmak, our goal is not only to reach more countries with our value-added bee products with functional benefits in addition to honey, but also to bring the quality, variety, and naturalness of Turkish bee products to their deserved position with permanent strategies. It is to introduce these values to the world with the Balparmak brand and to increase the global brand value of our country in the field of bee products.

*Based on Revenue (TL) according to the 2024 Nielsen Report for the total honey category in the Turkish market

Balparmak, one of the world's leading honey brands, not just in Türkiye, has been working for half a century to protect the miraculous gifts of bees and nature, bee products, and to ensure they reach tables in their natural state. The research by the Balparmak R&D Center on bee products and bees is attracting global interest.

Honey, which can remain natural for thousands of years as long as it is not subjected to external intervention, is the common miracle of nature and bees. While bees have been producing honey with the same methods for tens of thousands of years, this natural product has been carefully preserved by humanity since ancient times. Sealed honey jars dating back to the BC era and discovered by archaeologists in Tutankhamun's tomb in the Egyptian pyramids offer us the oldest evidence of this natural cycle. Thanks to the naturally occurring enzymes and components within it, honey remained unspoiled even after thousands of years. This extraordinary situation revealed that honey can also exist as a food independent of the effects of time. Therefore, important duties fall on beekeepers, industrialists, and consumers alike to protect bee populations and keep honey in its most natural state.

Working to protect honey and bees for 45 years

Balparmak, which has been working for half a century to protect honey, the miraculous gift of bees and nature, and to ensure it reaches tables from the hive in its natural state, leads the sector with scientific studies carried out at its R&D Center. The Balparmak R&D Center, which has made a name for itself in the international arena with advanced detection methods developed to prevent fraud and adulteration aimed at multiplying or imitating honey, is also a scientific center that has pioneered many initiatives to offer other value-added bee products such as propolis, royal jelly, and bee pollen to humanity. Today, it continues its responsibility in this field with determination by contributing to the evaluation of not only honey but all bee products in terms of sustainability and benefit. Balparmak General Manager Ulaş Altıparmak says, "As a brand that has contributed to the sector for 45 years, we are working with all our might to ensure that the story of natural honey continues for generations. Every detail of the Balparmak R&D Center is a reflection of our vision of quality, trust, and naturalness."

One of the top 10 companies investing the most in R&D

According to Turkish Time Magazine's R&D 250 research, Balparmak, one of the top 10 brands investing the most in R&D in the food sector, transformed its laboratory journey, which began in a 9-square-meter room in 1986, into an international R&D center today, spanning 1607 square meters and employing 20 scientists, most of whom hold doctorates.
The international validity of the advanced detection methods developed by the Balparmak R&D Center, one of Europe's four most comprehensive equivalent laboratories, to prevent honey adulteration has made the center renowned worldwide. Most recently, thanks to the analysis method introduced at the 6th International Bee Products Congress in Romania, which can detect adulterated honey in 25 minutes, Balparmak was appointed to lead the International Honey Commission's "Authenticity and Composition of Bee Products" working group.

Balparmak, the leader of the honey sector, took its place in the ISO second 500 list!

Balparmak General Manager Ulaş Altıparmak: "As Balparmak, we have been inspired by nature and moving forward with the power of science for 45 years. Our inclusion among ISO's largest industrial enterprises is a natural result of our 45 years of effort, our vision intertwined with beekeeping, and our sustainable production power. As a brand that developed an advanced analysis method with the potential to increase Türkiye's pine honey exports by 30 percent and carries bee products to 43 countries, we believe that this success is not just a financial ranking; it is a brand journey where sustainability, science, export, and agricultural development values are intertwined."

Global reference point for natural honey and Turkish pine honey

The Balparmak R&D Center achieved a significant first in the sector with its new C4 analysis method specially developed for Turkish pine honey. This new method, developed for pine honey which cannot be analyzed in the same way as blossom honey, was published in international peer-reviewed journals, accepted by European laboratories, and registered by being included in TSE standards through Balparmak's initiative. This scientific achievement has the potential to increase Türkiye's pine honey exports by approximately 30 percent. Balparmak continues to lead the global journey of Turkish honey.

International award for Balparmak's Propolis studies!

The Balparmak R&D Center achieved another significant success with its scientific studies on propolis. The center, which detected 126 new molecules in Türkiye's indigenous brown (black poplar) propolis produced by bees, won the "Most Successful Scientific Study in Propolis" award at the 4th International Propolis Conference held in Brazil for this comprehensive study. Balparmak R&D and Quality Director Dr. Emel Damarlı stated that this study is an important development for the health, pharmaceutical, and food sectors, and that clinical studies will commence. Balparmak General Manager Ulaş Altıparmak emphasized that Balparmak is a research center that centers innovation and science, and stated that they will contribute to Türkiye's strengthening in the global market with innovative products produced from domestic propolis.

Shaping the future with innovation

Altıparmak emphasized that another prominent aspect of the Balparmak R&D Center is making other bee products such as royal jelly, bee pollen, and propolis available to humanity, and continued: "At our R&D Center, we offer innovative products by considering the changing needs of our consumers. In line with the demand for natural and functional products, our Apitera series stands out with enriched formulas of bee products such as natural honey, propolis, bee pollen, and royal jelly." Apitera Propolisli Çocuk Spreyi, one of the important products in the series, was selected as the "Most Innovative Product of 2024" in a study conducted in collaboration with Marketing Türkiye and YouGov. Furthermore, according to the Consumer Feedback Survey conducted on the denebunu.com platform with 1518 mothers from 73 provinces, 9 out of 10 mothers who tried Apitera Propolisli Çocuk Spreyi recommend it. These successes are a concrete indicator of both our scientific perspective and the importance we attach to innovation.

The value of Turkish Pine Honey has been certified through geographical indication registration by the Turkish Patent and Trademark Office, marking a significant step towards Turkish honey achieving its deserved recognition worldwide. This is an important achievement gained through the collaborative efforts of institutions and stakeholders who share this responsibility. As Balparmak, Turkey's leading natural honey brand*, we are proud to be a part of this valuable process and happy to contribute to efforts that preserve the local identity of our country's precious honey.

Pine honey, a type of honeydew honey unique to our country, is produced by Anatolian honey bees in the red pine forests of the Aegean coast, accounting for approximately 92% of the world's total yield. Pine honey is one of Turkey's most important bee products, both in terms of production volume and commercial contribution, and it stands out among honey varieties in exports.

Ulaş Altıparmak, Balparmak General Manager, evaluated the geographical indication registration process for Turkish Pine Honey with the following words: "In this important process led by the Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry Menemen Aegean Agricultural Research Institute; a strong collaboration model was established through the contributions of officials from the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) and the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) who prepared the project, Professor Dr. Sertaç Dokuzlu from Bursa Uludağ University who managed the process, and the efforts of the Central Union of Turkish Beekeepers (TAB) and sector stakeholders. As Balparmak, Turkey's leading natural honey brand*, we are proud to support this process with our scientific infrastructure, R&D Center, and areas of expertise, and to contribute to the protection of our country's valuable bee product. Since our establishment, we have been working to contribute to the development of the bee products sector, support the sustainability of beekeeping, and help Turkish honey achieve its deserved value in the global market. We see this approach not just as a commercial goal, but as our responsibility towards our country, nature, and all sector stakeholders. We will continue to carry out science-based studies to increase the naturalness, reliability, and competitiveness of Turkish honey; and to produce solutions that will add long-term value to the sector with the same determination.”

Dr. Emel Damarlı, Balparmak R&D and Quality Director, made the following statement in her assessment of the matter: “Turkish Pine Honey, 92% of which is produced in the red pine forests of the Aegean coast, deserves to be recognized worldwide as a value unique to our country. As a stakeholder in the sector, we have long been conducting science-based studies towards this goal. The geographical indication obtained as a result of the application process, conducted in a multi-stakeholder structure in cooperation with FAO and EBRD, was a meaningful outcome of our common efforts. We are very happy to contribute to this process from a scientific perspective and to progress together with our stakeholders.”
*Based on Revenue (TL) according to the 2024 Nielsen Report for the total honey category in the Turkish market

About Balparmak:

Balparmak differentiates itself with the quality standard it offers to its consumers, working with the mission to bring honey and bee products to their highest deserved value by preserving their naturalness, and thus leading the sector in this regard. Working according to international standards in food safety, Balparmak also holds international food safety system certificates such as FSSC 22000 (Food Safety System Certification) and BRCGS (British Retail Consortium Global Standards). Balparmak, which has Turkey's first R&D Center in the field of honey and other bee products, and the 8th in the food sector; analyzes its products offered to consumers in at least 100 parameters thanks to its Honey and Other Bee Products Research and Quality Control Laboratory accredited by TÜRKAK. www.balparmak.com.tr

Balparmak Beekeeping Academy, which has reached over 7,000 beekeepers since its establishment, examined beekeeping activities on-site in Istanbul's Aydos Forest with its 20-person R&D expert team. During the visit, held at the invitation of the Istanbul Beekeepers' Association, the successful practices of women beekeepers in royal jelly production were observed.

Balparmak Beekeeping Academy, established in 2018 by Turkey's leading natural honey brand* Balparmak, has reached over 7,000 beekeepers to date, providing comprehensive training on the hygienic and efficient production of high value-added bee products such as royal jelly, honey, pollen, and propolis. The Academy aims to integrate women and young people into the sector and works to ensure the development and sustainability of the profession through its continuous learning-based structure.

In line with this vision, the visit to Istanbul's Aydos Forest, at the special invitation of Onur Çilenk, President of the Istanbul Beekeepers' Association, presented a strong example of Balparmak's mutual learning-based structure with the field within the scope of its Beekeeping Academy. The meeting, attended by Balparmak R&D experts, contributed to blending field production experiences with technical knowledge. Among the data shared during these observations, the 10 kilograms of royal jelly produced by women beekeepers with unique success in approximately two months stood out. This high yield, requiring patience, meticulousness, and expertise, clearly demonstrated the importance of women's contribution.

"Production fueled by accurate knowledge brings sectoral success"

Onur Çilenk, President of the Istanbul Beekeepers' Association, stated in his assessment during the field visit, "Every profession has an academic aspect; beekeeping is also a profession that requires serious knowledge and experience. Especially conscious and planned feeding of colonies in the spring months is one of the most critical steps determining the season's productivity. Success in high value-added products like royal jelly is only possible with production processes equipped with knowledge and technically planned correctly."

"Beekeeping Academy enables high value-added production with women's labor"

Dr. Emel Damarlı, Balparmak R&D and Quality Director, expressed the importance of royal jelly with the following words: "Royal jelly is a high value-added product with export potential in many areas, from health to cosmetics. However, the production of this product requires expertise, patience, and hygiene. As Balparmak Beekeeping Academy, we set out to empower women in terms of vocational knowledge and skills. Women's labor is of great importance in royal jelly production, which requires delicate craftsmanship. Especially in this process, which requires patience, our women's abilities make a noticeable difference in the sector. In this way, women can make significant contributions to both household economies and national exports."

Ulaş Altıparmak, General Manager of Balparmak, added the following regarding the Beekeeping Academy's contribution to the sector: "With our training programs, we support women and young people to carry out this production with correct techniques, aiming to make Turkey prominent in the global market for royal jelly production. There is a significant labor gap and development potential in this area in our country; we extend an open invitation to women who want to utilize this potential. We would also like to thank Mr. Onur Çilenk, President of the Istanbul Beekeepers' Association, who has walked this path with us and supported us with his valuable contributions."

"Effort as delicate as lace transforms into royal jelly yield"

The most striking story from the field visit came from Ayşe Akkaya. Akkaya, who holds two master's degrees in Atomic and Molecular Physics and Occupational Health and Safety from Yıldız Technical University, recounted her journey into beekeeping: "I lived abroad for a while for the birth of my second child. When I returned to Turkey, I decided I wanted to spend more time with my children, so I took a break from my corporate career. During this time, I learned that my mother and aunt had started beekeeping. Initially, I was just helping them. However, over time, the nature of beekeeping, intertwined with nature and based on production, deeply affected me, and I decided to take it up. My aunt, in particular, became a very strong role model for me. Her experience, discipline, and patience guided me. Today, with my family, I actively engage in beekeeping in our apiary in Istanbul's Aydos Forest, focusing especially on royal jelly production."

Emphasizing that there are significant differences between honey production and royal jelly production, Akkaya explains the process as follows:

"Honey is a more stable and controlled process. But royal jelly requires much more intense attention, patience, and manual dexterity. Strict adherence to hygiene rules is essential. Royal jelly production is a discipline that requires working with the bees moment by moment. Especially larva transfer is a process done meticulously, like lacework... At first, I was afraid of bees, but now I say I can't give up this profession." Ayşe Akkaya's production journey not only created a transformation in her own life but also became an inspiring example for many women who want to step into beekeeping. A woman with an academic and corporate background gaining a new professional identity through beekeeping was a strong indicator for many women who were hesitant about this profession that it is a feasible, learnable, and sustainable production area.
*According to the 2024 Nielsen Report for the total honey category in the Turkish market based on revenue (TL)

About Balparmak Beekeeping Academy:

Beekeeping, in addition to its great importance for nature, is an ancient profession with a history spanning thousands of years. However, the aging average age of beekeepers, exceeding 50, and the decreasing interest of new generations in beekeeping threaten the future of this profession. To address this critical issue and ensure the sustainability of beekeeping, Balparmak Beekeeping Academy was established in 2018 by Balparmak in the Ula district of Muğla, with the contributions of the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD).

The main goal of Balparmak Beekeeping Academy is to attract young people, especially women, to this profession and to increase the quality and efficient production of value-added products such as royal jelly, pollen, and propolis, in addition to honey. The Academy has successfully reached over 7000 beekeepers to date and has organized many training programs that will make a difference in the beekeeping sector. The training covers topics such as bee life and biology, colony care and management, bee diseases, queen bee production, bee product production, beekeeping equipment, regulations, and nectar-producing plants. Methods for more quality and efficient production based on modern beekeeping techniques and scientific foundations are taught, and solutions are offered for problems encountered in the sector. In previous years, training provided in cooperation with Muğla Public Education was completed with MEB-approved certificates.

Balparmak Beekeeping Academy aims to secure the future of the beekeeping profession with its training programs and innovative applications. By ensuring quality and efficient production in the beekeeping sector, attracting new generations to this profession, and increasing the presence of women in the sector, beekeeping will achieve a more sustainable structure both economically and ecologically.

Balparmak, which has been the name for natural honey in Turkey for 45 years, consistently continues its success in its journey where it combines the miracle of nature with the power of science. Balparmak, listed among the "Second 500 Largest Industrial Enterprises" announced by the Istanbul Chamber of Industry (ICI), has strengthened its leadership in the field of honey and bee products with its industrial power.

Setting out 45 years ago with the vision of creating a brand that brings natural honey to its deserved value, Balparmak pioneered many firsts in the sector by making it a standard to offer reliable and natural honey to tables, authenticated by advanced analysis methods developed with strong R&D investments. Today, Balparmak, the first name that comes to mind when natural honey is mentioned in Turkey, is among the giants not only in dining tables but also in industry. Balparmak (Altıparmak Gıda Sanayi ve Ticaret A.Ş.), listed among the "Second 500 Largest Industrial Enterprises" announced by the Istanbul Chamber of Industry (ICI), has affirmed both its economic and sectoral growth.

Ulaş Altıparmak, General Manager of Balparmak, commented on the matter: "As Balparmak, we have been inspired by nature for 45 years and progressed with the power of science. Our inclusion among Turkey's large industrial enterprises as determined by the ICI is a natural result of our 45 years of effort; our vision intertwined with beekeeping, and our sustainable production power. Today, as a brand that developed an advanced analysis method capable of increasing Turkey's pine honey exports by 30 percent, and that delivers its products to tables in 43 different countries, we believe that this achievement is more than just a financial ranking; it is a brand journey born at the intersection of sustainability, science, export, quality, agricultural development, and the strong bond we have with our consumers, whom we call Balparmak Lovers."

Kerem Ekinci, Balparmak Financial Affairs Director, emphasized that the company's inclusion in the ICI Second 500 list is a concrete indicator of the value it has created at a corporate level, thanks to its strong financial infrastructure supported by current technologies, its focus on sustainability, and its data-driven management approach. Ekinci stated in his explanation, "With our effective resource utilization, financial discipline, and long-term perspective, we continue to grow not only with numerical data but also with a structural and cultural transformation."

A natural success story extending from Turkey to the world

Balparmak, which introduces Turkish honey and bee products, especially Turkish Pine Honey, to the world, today exports to 43 different countries, from Germany to America. This export success, in addition to the quality value of its products, is a concrete indicator of Balparmak's strong representation of Turkey in the international arena.

Behind Balparmak's success is an approach that combines the miracle of nature, the labor of bees, and the power of science. The contribution of the Balparmak R&D Center, a pioneer in bee products in Turkey, is also very significant. The center, which is considered one of the world's leading scientific centers in bee products, achieves international successes. The naturalness and purity of every jar of honey are certified by advanced analyses and delivered to tables with confidence. Balparmak also directly contributes to the development and sustainability of the beekeeping profession through the Balparmak Beekeeping Academy. This structure, which makes beekeeping more efficient and sustainable, adopts an approach that considers not only the producer but also the nature in which we live. While academic-level training provided to beekeepers creates a long-term value chain, it also serves the protection of the ecosystem.

About Balparmak:

Balparmak, which differentiates itself with the quality standard it offers to its consumers and works with the mission of preserving the naturalness of honey and bee products and raising them to their highest deserved value, assumes leadership in the sector in this sense. Working according to international standards in food safety, Balparmak also holds international food safety system certifications such as FSSC 22000 (Food Safety System Certification) and BRCGS (British Retail Consortium Global Standards). Balparmak, which has Turkey's first R&D Center in the field of honey and other bee products, and the 8th in the food sector; thanks to its Honey and Other Bee Products Research and Quality Control Laboratory accredited by TÜRKAK, analyzes its products offered to consumers in at least 100 parameters.

Balparmak R&D Center Leads the Global Beekeeping Industry

For half a century, Balparmak has been dedicated to preserving the miraculous gift of bees and nature—honey—and ensuring its natural arrival on our tables. Through scientific research conducted at its R&D Center, Balparmak leads the bee products sector. Renowned internationally for its detection methods developed to prevent imitation and adulteration, the Balparmak R&D Center is a scientific hub that has pioneered numerous initiatives to elevate all bee products with functional benefits to their rightful value and make them available for humanity's benefit.

Balparmak General Manager Ulaş Altıparmak states, "As a brand that has contributed to the sector for 45 years, we operate with the responsibility of protecting this natural collaboration, sustained by the miracle of nature, the labor of bees, and the dedication of beekeepers, and passing it on to future generations. To this end, we conduct scientifically significant global studies."

Honey is one of nature's most miraculous products. This food item, capable of retaining its natural state for thousands of years as long as it remains free from external interference, has undoubtedly been produced by bees—creatures as miraculous as honey itself—using the same methods for tens of thousands of years. Honey pots found in the Egyptian pyramids and in the tomb of Egyptian Pharaoh Tutankhamun, dating back to before Christ, offer the oldest evidence of this natural cycle. The naturally occurring enzymes and components in honey protected it for centuries. This extraordinary phenomenon revealed that honey can exist as a timeless food. Therefore, beekeepers, industrialists, and consumers all have important responsibilities to ensure the survival of bees and the preservation of honey in its most natural form.

Working for 45 years to protect natural honey, beekeeping, and bees

For half a century, Balparmak has been dedicated to preserving the miraculous gift of bees and nature—natural honey—and ensuring its natural journey from the hive to our tables. Through scientific research conducted at its R&D Center, Balparmak also leads the sector. Renowned internationally for the methods it developed to prevent fraud and adulteration in honey, the Balparmak R&D Center is a scientific hub that has pioneered numerous initiatives to make other bee products available for humanity's benefit. Balparmak General Manager Ulaş Altıparmak states, "As a brand that has contributed to the sector for 45 years, we operate with the responsibility of protecting this natural collaboration, sustained by the miracle of nature, the labor of bees, and the dedication of beekeepers."

According to Turkish Time Magazine's R&D 250 research, Balparmak is one of the top 10 brands in Turkey that invest most in R&D among food companies. In 1986, Balparmak established its laboratory in a 9-square-meter room with one person. Today, it has successfully transformed it into a comprehensive center with 1607 square meters of enclosed space and a $10 million technological infrastructure, where 20 scientists, most of whom hold doctorates, conduct international-level discoveries.

Today, Balparmak R&D Center is one of the four most comprehensive equivalent laboratories in Europe. The internationally valid advanced detection methods it developed to prevent honey adulteration have brought the center global recognition. At the 6th International Bee Products Congress held in Romania last year, Balparmak announced the methods it developed for detecting imitation and adulteration in honey and other bee products. Thanks to its analysis method that can detect fraudulent honey in 25 minutes, Balparmak was appointed to lead the "Authenticity and Composition of Bee Products" working group of the International Honey Commission.

Ulaş Altıparmak emphasizes that it's impossible to tell whether honey is natural or adulterated by simply looking at its color, smell, or appearance. "The only way to detect fraud in honey is through detailed analysis. Our focus is on protecting people and nature. All our efforts for the development of the sector are a reflection of this focus. Thanks to our technological investments in our R&D Center and the work we develop with our strong human resources, consisting of expert engineers and scientists with doctorates, we achieve global scientific successes. We can detect all kinds of sugar syrups, colorants, and additives added to honey to multiply or imitate it within 25 minutes. Under the umbrella of our Apitera brand, we offer comfort in daily life with natural bee products that have different functional features, presented to consumers' liking. These important works of our R&D center are significant steps towards becoming a reference institution. We can say that the entire scientific world recognizes the Balparmak R&D Center for its countless successes that have made a global impact. This is a source of pride for our country," he stated.

A Global Reference Point for Natural Honey and Turkish Pine Honey

Another important method developed by the Balparmak R&D Center is the analysis method also known as the C4 sugar ratio. This method is applied to all honeys by international laboratories, but when applied to our unique pine honey, it yielded false positive results, indicating that our pine honey was not natural. Ulaş Altıparmak stated that they opened the doors to exports by developing the C4 method specific to Turkish Pine Honey within the scope of a project carried out by Balparmak R&D Center in international collaboration, which included four years of field studies. He added, "95% of the world's pine honey harvest comes from Turkey. This is a great opportunity for our country; Turkish Pine Honey is an important and endemic honeydew honey variety unique to our country that can open the way for Turkey's exports. The new C4 analysis method, developed based on the fact that pine honey cannot be examined with the analysis method used for flower honey, was published in international peer-reviewed journals and accepted by laboratories worldwide. This method became an important key for Europe to accept Turkish Pine Honey. This situation has the potential to increase Turkey's pine honey exports by approximately 30 percent. The new C4 analysis method was registered by being included in TSE standards and opened the doors to a new era in our country's pine honey exports. As Balparmak, we continue to lead the global journey of Turkish honey."

International award for scientific studies on propolis!

In recent years, the Balparmak R&D Center has made a name for itself with its studies on propolis, one of the value-added products produced by bees. As a result of research, it extracted the DNA of propolis, known as the miracle of nature and produced by bees, and detected exactly 126 molecules in brown (black poplar) propolis unique to Turkey. Balparmak R&D and Quality Director Dr. Emel Damarlı emphasized that propolis is one of the most valuable gifts nature offers to humanity. She said, "We mobilize all our knowledge and technology to support the production of propolis, ensure its sustainability, develop new products, and determine its importance in a quality life. In our latest research at the Balparmak R&D Center, we detected 126 molecules with different properties in brown propolis. This year, at the International Propolis Conference held in Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo, Brazil, where a total of 54 scientific presentations were made from 24 countries, we were awarded the 'Most Successful Scientific Study in the Field of Propolis' by the University of São Paulo, Brazil. Such a comprehensive study was conducted for the first time in the world. This work is an important development for many sectors, from health to medicine and food. Our team is now preparing for clinical trials. The types of effects shown by the detected molecules will emerge as a result of these studies."

Balparmak General Manager Ulaş Altıparmak stated that the scientific achievements are a source of pride for Turkey, and that 20 scientists, most of whom have doctorates, are working with all their might at the R&D Center to make new discoveries. Altıparmak noted that Balparmak is not just a brand, but also an innovation and science-oriented research center. He said, "Thanks to science-based approaches, we will contribute to Turkey gaining a stronger position in the global market for propolis production. Furthermore, we will support sustainable growth in the sector by encouraging our producers engaged in beekeeping to produce in accordance with international standards."

"We Shape the Future with Innovation"

Altıparmak emphasized that another prominent aspect of the Balparmak R&D Center is making other bee products available to humanity, and continued: "At our R&D Center, we also make a mark with innovative products, taking into account the changing needs of our consumers. The Apitera series, which we developed in line with the demand for natural and functional products, stands out with its enriched formulas of bee products such as natural honey, propolis, bee pollen, and royal jelly." Apitera Propolis Children's Spray, one of the important products in the series, was selected as the "Most Innovative Product of 2024" in a study conducted in collaboration with Marketing Türkiye and YouGov. Additionally, according to the Consumer Feedback Survey conducted with 1518 mothers from 73 provinces on the denebunu.com platform, 9 out of every 10 mothers who tried Apitera Propolis Children's Spray recommend it. These successes are a concrete indicator of both our scientific perspective and the importance we place on innovation.

“Nature’s Gift: The Unique Story of Natural Honey from Bees to Tables is Secured with Balparmak”

Bees, nature's unique architects, keep natural life vibrant through their important contributions to plant pollination as they move from flower to flower. The miracle of these small creatures, which bring life to nature by carrying pollen, is hidden in the golden drops they produce with patience and effort. Honey... This unique natural flavor is an invaluable gift given to humanity by bees. Beekeepers are the most valuable part of this precious process. Beekeepers continue to preserve the ancestral profession of beekeeping with this unique partnership they have established with bees. Balparmak respectfully inherits the legacy of this unique and natural collaboration, combining the miracles of nature with the labor of bees and the dedication of beekeepers, preserving its naturalness and bringing it to tables. It carefully follows this unique journey of honey, starting from nature and extending to tables; each jar of honey is analyzed from its natural process with advanced scientific methods and meets consumers. Ulaş Altıparmak underlines that "we work with all our might for the story of natural honey to continue for generations," and that every detail of the Balparmak R&D Center is a reflection of its vision of quality, trust, and naturalness.

Balparmak, Migros, and TEMA Foundation launch a special awareness project for children: "Think Like a Bee for Nature"

Balparmak, Turkey's leading honey brand*, celebrates World Bee Day with the "Think Like a Bee for Nature" awareness project, brought to life in collaboration with Migros and TEMA Foundation. As part of the project, which will continue until June 30, children's drawings will be transformed into saplings, forming a memorial forest.

Bees, which have existed on Earth for approximately 100 million years, are an indispensable part of the ecosystem and food production. 90% of the world's foodstuffs need pollinators, primarily bees, to reproduce. For 75% of the plants we consume as food, product quantity and quality depend on pollinators like bees. While 35% of global agricultural production occurs through this pollination process, some plant species such as coffee, tomatoes, apples, and carrots are entirely dependent on bee pollination activities. However, factors such as climate change, agricultural pesticides, and water pollution threaten bee populations. This situation poses a serious risk for both the existence of bees and food security.

If there are bees, there is a future

Honey, a product of bees, is one of the rare foods that can be stored for a long time without spoiling worldwide. However, the decrease in bees causes us to be deprived of this valuable food source. Protecting bees is vital not only for nature but also for the future of humanity. Therefore, the protection of natural ecosystems, the spread of sustainable agricultural methods, and the protection of bee habitats are of great importance.

To draw attention to the critical role of bees in the ecosystem and agriculture, "World Bee Day" is celebrated every year on May 20. As part of this special day, awareness activities are carried out regarding the vital importance of bees for ecosystem balance and food security.

Drawings by tiny hands turn into a memorial forest

Balparmak, one of Turkey's number one and the world's few natural honey brands, in collaboration with Migros and TEMA Foundation, launched the "Think Like a Bee for Nature" campaign to draw attention to the vital importance of bees for nature and humanity. In the campaign, launched within the scope of World Bee Day, children combine their imagination with nature; their drawings turn into saplings. For the drawings submitted by children, Balparmak donates saplings to the TEMA Foundation. Thus, the drawings of tiny hands turn into a memorial forest that will breathe life into the future.

With this campaign, Balparmak aims to contribute to the development of children as environmentally conscious individuals, while also aiming to raise awareness about the vital role of bees in the ecosystem.

"Contributing to the upbringing of environmentally conscious generations is one of our most important responsibilities"

Özen Altıparmak, Chairman of the Board of Balparmak, made a statement regarding the project implemented within the scope of World Bee Day:

"World Bee Day is of great importance not only for bees, the miraculous creatures of nature, but also for all of us for a sustainable future. Bees do not only produce honey; they are one of the most vital creatures that ensure the balance of nature, the continuity of agricultural production, and the security of our food chain. Today, approximately 90% of the world's flowering plants multiply through bee pollination. Consider that a worker bee can only produce a tiny bit of honey, as much as the tip of a teaspoon, in its entire life. To produce one kilogram of honey, bees travel approximately 240,000 kilometers in total – enough to circle the world six times. Moreover, these precious creatures live for a maximum of 45 days. As Balparmak, we have made it our mission for 45 years to protect the labor of these miraculous creatures and to deliver natural honey to our consumers on this precious journey that begins with nature and reaches our tables. With this responsibility, through the 'Think Like a Bee for Nature' project, which we implemented in cooperation with Migros and TEMA Foundation, we combine our children's imagination with their love for nature. Through this meaningful awareness project, where children's drawings turn into saplings, we both make a concrete contribution to nature and support the upbringing of environmentally conscious individuals for the future. Following the path of the bee and nature is not just a business for us, but a way of life."

"Bees are indispensable parts of nature"

TEMA Foundation, one of the stakeholders of the project aiming to draw attention to the vital role of bees in the ecosystem, contributes to the project with its long-standing work in this field. Deniz Ataç, Chairman of the Foundation's Board of Directors, said in his evaluation of the project, "Everything in nature is interconnected; bees are an indispensable part of this great cycle. Approximately 60,000 bees live in a hive. Bees are not only the producers of the honey on our tables, but also tiny heroes with very important duties for the continuity of nature."

Ataç stated that as TEMA Foundation, they have been drawing attention to this vital role of bees in nature for many years and added, "We see beekeeping as an important part of rural development; especially in the founding years of our foundation, we demonstrated our responsibility in this field with our studies on the Caucasian bee. Since those days, we have been continuing our awareness projects that aim to direct everyone's attention, from 7 to 70, to nature. In 2019, with the 'If There Are Bees, There Is a Future' project, implemented in cooperation with the Ministry of National Education and Balparmak, we reached 71,200 people in 54 provinces. Today, with the same belief, we are launching a new project that combines children's imagination with nature. Children answer the question, 'If you had the power of 60,000 bees, what would you do to make our world more beautiful?' with their drawings; they photograph these drawings and upload them to www.dunyaarigunu.com. Thus, the drawings made by tiny hands meet the soil and turn into saplings, forming a memorial forest. We wish these saplings to grow and become a habitat and food source for bees again, and we are very excited that every child's effort leaves a mark on nature."

The "Think Like a Bee for Nature" awareness project combines the power of the biological system with the imagination of children. In this way, a strong and lasting bond is established between children and bees, the most hardworking creatures of nature.

*According to the 2024 Nielsen Report for the total honey category in the Turkish market, based on Revenue (TL)

About Balparmak:

Balparmak, which differentiates itself with the quality standards it offers to its consumers and works with the mission of preserving the naturalness of honey and bee products and bringing them to their highest value, takes on the pioneering role in the sector in this sense. Working according to international standards for food safety, Balparmak also has international food safety system certifications such as FSSC 22000 (Food Safety System Certification) and BRCGS (British Retail Consortium Global Standards). Balparmak, which has Turkey's first R&D Center in the field of honey and other bee products and the 8th in the food sector; thanks to its Honey and Other Bee Products Research and Quality Control Laboratory accredited by TÜRKAK, analyzes its products offered to consumers in at least 100 parameters.

About TEMA Foundation

TEMA, the Turkish Foundation for Combating Erosion, Reforestation and the Protection of Natural Assets, was founded in 1992 by two nature lovers, the late Hayrettin Karaca (Grandfather Soil) and the late A. Nihat Gökyiğit (Grandfather Leaf). The Foundation, which combats erosion and desertification, is a civil society organization that works to increase social sensitivity and awareness, produce protective solutions, and contribute to making this struggle a state policy for the protection of all natural assets, especially soil. Operating with over 1.2 million volunteers in 81 provinces of Turkey, the Foundation has so far planted more than 42 million saplings and sowed 700 million acorns. It has reached over 7 million students through nature education and awareness activities. It has reached more than 280,000 teachers and over 35,000 public officials through environmental seminars, training programs, projects, and educational portals. It has contributed nearly 100 environmental books to the public. In 2012, it became the first recipient of the Land for Life award, given for the first time in the world under the leadership of the United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification Secretariat.

Balparmak, Turkey’s leading honey brand, was honored with the "First Place in Honey Export Abroad" award by the Istanbul Seafood and Animal Products Exporters' Association for its outstanding performance in honey exports in 2024. In 2024, the brand expanded its export network to include countries such as China, the world leader in honey production, as well as Hong Kong, South Korea, Azerbaijan, Jordan, Yemen, Qatar, and Kuwait, continuing its global growth through new collaborations in these markets.

Balparmak contributes to Turkey's expertise in honey and other bee products through new analysis methods developed at the Balparmak R&D Center, particularly leading the global recognition of Turkish pine honey.

The global honey market has reached $9.5 billion with 1.8 million tons of production. The market is expected to exceed $14 billion by 2031, with accelerated growth, while Turkey, the world's second-largest honey producer, continues its ascent in honey and other bee product exports. According to official data, our country, which produces 114 thousand tons of honey with approximately 9.3 million bee colonies, generated approximately 32 million dollars in foreign exchange earnings from honey exports.

Balparmak, Turkey's leading honey brand, expanded its export network last year by ensuring the global acceptance of natural Turkish honey through new analysis methods it developed, entering markets such as China (the leading honey producer), Hong Kong, South Korea, Jordan, Yemen, Qatar, Kuwait, Azerbaijan, Kosovo, North Macedonia, Montenegro, and the USA.

Balparmak: The Star of Turkish Honey in the Global Market

Turkey's leading honey brand, Balparmak, inspired by nature, continues to be the brand ambassador of Turkish honey in the world by working in line with sustainable production principles. Proving its leadership in this field once again with its export success in 2024, the brand was awarded first place in the honey category as the company with the highest export volume in the 2024 export performance evaluation conducted by the Istanbul Seafood and Animal Products Exporters' Association (İSHİB), operating under the Turkish Exporters Assembly. At the award ceremony held at the Turkish Exporters Assembly center with the participation of the President of the Turkish Exporters Assembly (TİM) and senior officials, Balparmak General Manager Ulaş Altıparmak received his award from İSHİB President Müjdat Sezer. In his speech at the ceremony, Altıparmak emphasized that the company has achieved growth in foreign markets not only in honey but also in other value-added bee product categories such as propolis, royal jelly, and pollen, stating, "We are carrying Turkey's natural honey richness and our R&D power to the world. We are expanding our category with innovative products in the bee products group; we offer our consumers supplementary solutions with different functional properties."

Altıparmak: "Today, I am deeply honored that our efforts to deliver honey, one of our country's natural riches, to all corners of the world are being recognized. I sincerely thank İSHİB for this meaningful award. Being deemed worthy of this award as the company with the highest volume in Turkey's honey exports in 2024 is not only a source of pride for us but also an important milestone that increases our responsibility. We set out with the goal of increasing the global recognition of Turkish honey while delivering our natural and high-quality products to 43 countries. Our successes in markets such as Germany, Singapore, Japan, Hong Kong, America, England, and Qatar are a concrete reflection of this vision. I extend my endless thanks to the entire Balparmak family, our business partners, and our consumers who have always trusted us for their contributions to this success. We will resolutely continue to promote Turkish honey to the world and write many more success stories."

Balparmak Joins Tj Mall, China's Largest E-commerce Platform

Balparmak General Manager Ulaş Altıparmak noted that they have started selling products on TJ Mall, one of China's largest e-commerce platforms, stating, “Our efforts to open up to new markets continue unabated. Last year, we launched our Apitera Spray Kids and Adults products in Hong Kong. In January 2025, our Balparmak honeys took their place on shelves. We also entered the market in South Korea with our Apitera series. We introduced Apitera Zen, Up, and Mind products to South Korean consumers. This step was an important milestone for our brand's global growth target.”

Altıparmak also underlined the international growth vision of Balparmak's wellness brand Apitera. Altıparmak: “For 2026, we aim to grow with our Apitera branded products, especially in Europe and the Middle East. Establishing collaborations with national supermarket chains in Europe and developing strategic partnerships in selected countries in the Middle East are among our priorities.”

Expansion Continues in Europe and North America

Altıparmak explained that Balparmak products are meeting consumers through agreements made in the UK, Ireland, and Germany, and noted that they are preparing to distribute to local stores in the USA and to nearly 300 points in Toronto, Canada. Altıparmak stated, "This way, we will strengthen our presence in North America. In Europe, we have started shipments to nearby countries such as Kosovo, North Macedonia, and Montenegro. We are very active as a brand in Azerbaijan. Our products are available in nearly 400 pharmacies and airport stores in Jordan and Yemen. Our products are listed in Al Meera markets in Qatar. As of 2025, we will also be present in large retail chains such as Lulu, Carrefour, Al Meera, and Monoprix. In Kuwait, agreements have been made for listing in Lulu markets. These developments indicate that Balparmak's global growth strategy is being implemented with firm steps."

2025 Goal: Accelerate Global Expansion

Emphasizing their goal to further expand their export map in 2025, Altıparmak provided information about their ongoing work: “Our efforts towards large markets such as Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Bosnia and Herzegovina, and Amazon USA are continuing. Our reliability and recognition worldwide have increased thanks to the analysis methods we developed at the Balparmak R&D Center. The new C4 analysis method we developed with four years of intensive work at our Balparmak R&D center changed Europe’s perception of Turkish pine honey. Pine honey, which is widely produced in the Muğla, Aydın, and Marmaris regions, attracts great interest abroad. To date, we have invested over $10 million in our R&D center. Based on the finding that pine honey, a honeydew honey, cannot be analyzed using the flower honey analysis method, the new C4 analysis method specially developed by our Balparmak R&D Center for pine honey has been published in international peer-reviewed journals and accepted by laboratories worldwide. This method, an important tool in combating counterfeiting and adulteration in honey, has the potential to increase Turkey's pine honey exports by approximately 30 percent. The new C4 analysis method has been formalized by being included in TSE standards and has opened a new era in the export of Turkish Pine Honey, which meets 92 percent of global pine honey production. As Balparmak, we continue to deliver our natural products to all corners of the world. The successes we achieve on the international arena for our country not only increase our power in global markets but also pave the way for our entry into new markets.”

About Balparmak:

Balparmak, which differentiates itself with the quality standards it offers to consumers and works with the mission of preserving the naturalness of honey and bee products to elevate them to their highest value, takes on the pioneering role in the sector in this regard. Working according to international standards in food safety, Balparmak also holds international food safety system certifications such as FSSC 22000 (Food Safety System Certification) and BRCGS (British Retail Consortium Global Standards). Balparmak, which has Turkey's first R&D Center in honey and other bee products and the 8th in food, analyzes its products offered to consumers with at least 100 parameters thanks to its Honey and Other Bee Products Research and Quality Control Laboratory accredited by TÜRKAK.

A brand new page has been opened in Turkey's gastronomy atlas

Balparmak, which has been bringing honey carefully collected from all over our country with the natural cooperation of bees and beekeepers to consumers for 45 years, preserving its naturalness, introduces Turkey's honey richness to the world.

Leading figures of the gastronomy world gathered at the Balparmak Campus to create the "Flavor Map of Turkish Honey". During the event, participants received training from the world-renowned Italian Bee Scientist, Honey Tasting Expert and Sensory Analysis Trainer Raffaele Dall’Olio on distinguishing different taste profiles and evaluating the sensory richness of honey.

Thanks to its unique geographical richness and climate diversity, Turkey is among the leading countries in the world in terms of both quantity and quality of honey production. In the Anatolian geography, which hosts approximately 12 thousand plant species, more than 3,500 endemic plants grow naturally. This unique flora richness contributes to the formation of honey with unique aromas through thousands of different nectar sources such as thyme, astragalus, cistus, lavender, citrus, chestnut and pine.

With approximately 9.2 million bee colonies, Turkey ranks third in the world in terms of colony number and carries the potential to be a true global brand in honey, not only with its production power but also with its biodiversity, cultural heritage and sustainable relationship with nature. Balparmak, which has been dedicatedly supporting the ancient cooperation between bees and beekeepers and nature for 45 years, and bringing honey collected from all over Anatolia to consumers without compromising its naturalness, undertakes the responsibility of making this potential visible to the whole world.

Balparmak has transformed honey, a gift of nature, into a cultural experience

Balparmak, which sees Turkey's unique geographical and biological richness not only as a part of the production process but also as a cultural heritage and narrative element, has initiated a study to make the labor behind honey, the bee, the beekeeper, the geography and the story visible. Maximilian J.W Thomae, Gökhan Sehlikoğlu, Mert Seran, Jale Balcı, Çiğdem Alagök, Faruk Şüyun, Başak Oksak, Reyhan Ülker, Hatice Ünal Bilen, who are prominent chefs and leading figures in the world of gastronomy in Turkey, gathered at the Balparmak Campus under the moderation of Food Engineer and Gastronomy Writer Ebru Erke to create the "Flavor Map of Turkish Honey".

Özen Altıparmak, Chairman of the Board of Balparmak, said that these scientific achievements are a source of pride for Turkey. Altıparmak stated, "The fact that we received the 'Most Successful Scientific Study in Propolis Field' award from the conference, which was attended by 24 countries and competed with 54 presentations, was first and foremost a great source of pride for our country. More than 20 of my colleagues, mostly with doctorates, are working on new discoveries at our R&D Center. As Balparmak, we are making firm steps towards becoming an 'Expert Institution' in the international arena."

As part of Balparmak's collaboration with the world-renowned Italian Bee Scientist, Honey Tasting Expert and Sensory Analysis Trainer Raffaele Dall’Olio, a tasting map of Turkey's unique honeys has begun to be created. This map transforms honey from being just a part of breakfast tables into a cultural heritage that appeals to the senses. Natural honey is redefined, going beyond being a traditional flavor in the gastronomy world. It transforms into a characteristic element around which stories will be told and tasting notes will be paired with different ingredients. This opens a brand new page in Turkey's gastronomy atlas. Throughout the event, participants had the opportunity to experience honeys with different taste and smell profiles, discovering the unique characteristics of each honey. This experience, enriched by Dall’Olio's training on evaluating the sensory richness of honey, revealed the gastronomic potential of honeys from Turkey's unique flora and inspired the "Flavor Map of Turkish Honey."

"It is our duty to tell the world the story behind every drop of honey"

Ulaş Altıparmak, General Manager of Balparmak, who delivered the opening speech of the event, emphasized that Turkey is not only a producer but also a country that stands out globally in terms of taste profile and diversity in honey. Altıparmak: "As Balparmak, we are carrying out studies to record this valuable richness and document it on scientific grounds. With our studies, we aim to make this unique potential visible both in our country and at an international level, and to add value to the sector."

Stating that the "Flavor Map of Turkish Honey" event is a reflection of this goal, Altıparmak said: "The richness of our country in honey has largely been described with general terms such as 'flower honey' or 'pine honey' until today. However, in every drop of honey, the aroma of thousands of plant species and the traces of the geography that gives life to these plants are hidden. Honeys obtained from the plateaus and plains of Yüksekova, Şemdinli, Bingöl, Muş and Kayseri; each attracting attention with its unique aromas and taste profiles specific to its region, while monofloral honey varieties produced from only a single flower type also have privileged tastes offered by nature. The strong flavored chestnut honey of the Black Sea, the refreshing citrus honey of the Mediterranean, the lavender honey of Isparta and Burdur, the thyme honey of the Taurus Mountains. Each of them leaves unforgettable traces on the palate and is a part of our cultural heritage written with taste. This meeting we held at our campus today opens up an area for us to explore the sensory, geographical and cultural layers of honey together. Thanks to this flavor map supported by tasting notes, the geographical and botanical character of honey comes to light; every natural honey becomes the voice of its own geography. As Balparmak, we see it as our responsibility to go beyond bringing natural honey to the tables; to tell the world the labor and culture behind it, the story behind every drop of honey," he said.

The Sensory Journey of Honey: Tasting Techniques and Functional Use Suggestions from Italian expert Dall’Olio

The event, which started with Raffaele Dall’Olio providing information about sensory analysis methods in Italy, continued with the analysis of 12 types of natural honey, including Plateau, Plateau-Plain, High Plateau, Chestnut, Thyme, Lavender, Kayseri, Bingöl, Şemdinli, Citrus, Yüksekova and Pine, each with different profiles, first by smell and then by taste. Speaking about the event, Dall’Olio said: "Today, we examined the disciplines and approaches of Italians in honey tasting training. Thanks to a methodology developed in Italy, honey identity cards created for honeys with different profiles standardize the sensory properties of the products and contribute to increasing their international recognition. The rich and diverse endemic flora in Turkey also allows for the emergence of honeys with different aroma and taste profiles. In the honey tasting event we held today, we evaluated 12 honeys from various regions of Turkey using the sensory analysis method. In the analyses we carried out based on criteria such as taste, texture, aroma and smell; we had the opportunity to experience the unique profiles of honeys such as citrus, pine, plateau and lavender."

After the tasting event, Dall’Olio gave training on honey and its uses; "Honey is a very functional and miraculous food. It needs to be used regularly. We can make honey, which contains strong nutritional values, a part of our daily routine instead of consuming it for a certain period. For example; you can use it as a sauce in your fruit and vegetable salads, or prefer it for marinating your fish and meat products. To create different flavors, you can pair it with cheese and dried fruits," said Dall’Olio, recommending that honey be consumed with yogurt, which is a strong probiotic.

Propolis DNA Decoded, Ushering in a New Era in the Scientific World

Balparmak, which extracted the DNA of propolis, the miraculous product of bees, identified 126 molecules. The effects of the components of these identified molecules will be determined definitively as a result of these studies.

Propolis, which stands out among many valuable products produced by bees, reveals another new property each day. Balparmak R&D Center, which extracted the DNA of propolis, one of the products that has attracted the most attention from the scientific world in recent years, identified exactly 126 molecules in brown propolis unique to Turkey. The findings were shared with the scientific community at the 4th International Propolis Conference this year.

Research team prepares for clinical trials

Balparmak R&D and Quality Director Dr. Emel Damarlı stated that Balparmak, which has been working for 45 years for the development of bees and beekeeping, and offering bee products in their most natural form, has an important place in the international scientific community with its scientific studies on bee products. Damarlı said, "We work with the responsibility of being Turkey's leading honey brand*. Each of the bee products is very valuable, and we have been working for a long time to reveal this value and ensure it finds its rightful place in human life. We carry out important studies that produce worldwide firsts. Propolis is one of the most valuable gifts nature offers to humans. Our latest study at the Balparmak R&D Center clearly demonstrated this. We identified 126 molecules with different properties in brown propolis. Such a comprehensive study was carried out for the first time in the world. This finding is an important development for many sectors, from health to medicine and food. Our team is now preparing for clinical trials. The type of effects shown by which components of the identified molecules will emerge as a result of these studies.”

Study outcomes awarded at 4th International Propolis Conference

The outcomes of the study were also shared with the scientific community at the 4th International Propolis Conference held last week in Sao Paulo State, Brazil. At the conference, where a total of 54 scientific presentations were made from 24 countries, the presentation by Balparmak R&D Center Analytical R&D Manager Dr. İsmail Emir Akyıldız surpassed the other 54 presentations and was deemed worthy of the "Most Successful Scientific Study in the Field of Propolis" award by the University of Sao Paulo, Brazil, which has the most scientific publications on propolis in the world. Damarlı concluded her speech by extending her thanks to the International Scientific Committee for honoring the work carried out by the Balparmak R&D Center with an award.

Altıparmak: We are progressing towards becoming a "Knowledge Institution" in the world

Balparmak Chairman of the Board Özen Altıparmak stated that these scientific achievements are a source of pride for Turkey. Altıparmak said, "Winning the 'Most Successful Scientific Study in the Field of Propolis' award from a conference attended by 24 countries and with 54 presentations was, first and foremost, a great source of pride for our country. More than 20 of my colleagues, most of whom have doctorates, are working in our R&D Center to achieve new discoveries. As Balparmak, we are progressing with firm steps towards becoming a 'Knowledge Institution' in the international arena."

*According to the 2024 Nielsen Report for the total honey category in the Turkish market, based on turnover (TL)

About Balparmak:

Balparmak, which differentiates itself with the quality standards it offers to its consumers and works with the mission of preserving the naturalness of honey and bee products and raising them to their deserved highest value, leads the sector in this regard. Balparmak, which operates according to international standards in food safety, also holds international food safety system certificates such as FSSC 22000 (Food Safety System Certification) and BRCGS (British Retail Consortium Global Standards). Balparmak, which has the first R&D Center in Turkey in the field of honey and other bee products and the 8th in the food sector; thanks to its Honey and Other Bee Products Research and Quality Control Laboratory accredited by TÜRKAK, analyzes the products it offers to its consumers with at least 100 parameters.

The 4th International Propolis Conference, which brought together scientists from all over the world, took place in the state of Sao Paulo, Brazil. The conference, held with the theme of "Immunity, Community, Sustainability", was marked by the research on propolis carried out by Balparmak R&D Center.

The presentation made by Balparmak Analytical R&D Manager Dr. İsmail Emir Akyıldız surpassed 54 presentations from 24 countries and received the "Most Successful Scientific Study in the Field of Propolis" award. Balparmak Chairman of the Board Özen Altıparmak was also deemed worthy of the "Honorary Award" for his international contributions to the sector.

Interest in bee products is increasing all over the world. Dozens of studies are being conducted and scientific articles are being published to understand the miraculous bee products: honey, propolis, royal jelly, and pollen. The third International Propolis Conference, held biennially under the leadership of the International Propolis Research Group to closely follow all global developments regarding propolis, one of the valuable products produced by bees, was hosted by Balparmak in Istanbul in 2023. This year's leg of the conference took place in Ribeirao Preto, a city in the state of Sao Paulo, Brazil. Scientists from 24 countries had the opportunity to present their research on propolis at the conference, which was held under the title "Immunity, Community, Sustainability."

Balparmak, representing Turkey, left its mark on the conference, which highlighted the characteristic properties, marker components, effects on the immune system, and anti-tumor and antimicrobial properties of propolis obtained from different countries. Analytical R&D Manager Dr. İsmail Emir Akyıldız, who participated in the conference under the leadership of Balparmak R&D and Quality Director Dr. Emel Damarlı, presented a research titled "Determination of chemical fingerprints of propolis samples from different botanical origins with untargeted metabolomic approaches," while Laboratory Technical Manager Dr. Ufuk Alpat presented a study on "Current developments in propolis extraction and processing." In the conference, where a total of 54 scientific presentations were made from 24 countries, Dr. İsmail Emir Akyıldız's presentation was awarded the "Most Successful Scientific Study in the Field of Propolis" by Brazil's Sao Paulo University, which has the most scientific publications on propolis in the world.

Dr. Emel Damarlı: "For 45 years, we have been working to promote honey and bee products"

In addition, Balparmak Chairman of the Board Özen Altıparmak was awarded the "Honorary Award" for his international contributions to the sector. Dr. Emel Damarlı, Balparmak R&D and Quality Director, who accepted the award on behalf of Altıparmak, emphasized the importance of scientific studies and highlighted that working together is essential for a more sustainable future. Damarlı stressed that Balparmak, besides being Turkey's leading honey brand*, is also a pioneer in the bee products sector in the international arena, working for 45 years to bring natural bee products to tables and carrying out important studies for the sustainability of bees and beekeeping. Damarlı noted that bees have many value-added products besides honey, and propolis holds a very special place among these products. Stating that they are proud to support research, especially on propolis, Damarlı said, "Propolis is one of the most valuable gifts nature offers to humans. We are mobilizing all our knowledge and technology to protect, develop, and sustain this heritage."

Propolis use is increasing!

Balparmak R&D and Quality Director Dr. Emel Damarlı emphasized that propolis use has increased by 50 percent in the last five years. Balparmak's well-being brand Apitera has enriched propolis throat sprays, developed for adults and children, with thyme, black seed, sage, lemon, and peppermint oil. Apitera Propolis Children's Spray was developed in collaboration with Balparmak R&D Center and TÜBİTAK MAM, considering children's taste sensitivity. Damarlı concluded her speech by thanking the International Scientific Committee for honoring Balparmak R&D Center's work with an award.

* Turkey market total honey category (excluding HD) based on turnover according to the 2023 Nielsen report

The second training of the Balparmak Beekeeping Academy, "Targeted Royal Jelly Production," was held on Wednesday, February 5th, at Balparmak's Çekmeköy campus. The training highlighted the high production potential of royal jelly, its strategic role in exports, and the transformative power of women's labor in the industry.

Balparmak Chairman of the Board Özen Altıparmak said, "Royal jelly is a high value-added product with export potential in many areas, from health to cosmetics. A kilogram sells for at least 20,000 lira. We especially want to direct and develop women who work as seasonal agricultural laborers in cotton and hazelnut fields into this area. Women's labor is of great importance in royal jelly production, which requires delicate craftsmanship. Especially in this process, which requires patience, our women's talents will make a visible difference in the industry. In this way, women can make a significant contribution to both household income and national exports."

Royal jelly is a highly nutritious and special bee product produced by worker bees to feed the queen bee. It contains carbohydrates, proteins, lipids, minerals, and vitamins. Globally, it is considered a valuable component in the food, pharmaceutical, and cosmetic industries. Royal jelly production is a laborious process that requires hygienic conditions and great care. For this reason, many beekeepers often focus on honey production and do not deal with royal jelly production. However, given its nutritional profile and economic value, royal jelly stands out as one of the highest value-added products in the beekeeping industry.

Balparmak has launched a training program for royal jelly production, which sells for at least 20,000 lira per kilogram, under the umbrella of the Balparmak Beekeeping Academy. The aim of the training is to direct beekeepers and especially women towards the production of this product, which requires delicate craftsmanship, thereby increasing export potential and contributing to household income.

Balparmak Chairman of the Board Özen Altıparmak: "We Want to Direct Our Women Towards Royal Jelly Production"

Making the opening speech of the training, Balparmak Chairman of the Board Özen Altıparmak called on women to bring this valuable product into the economy. Altıparmak said, "Royal jelly stands out as a valuable component in both the medical and food industries. However, the production of this valuable product requires very delicate craftsmanship and expertise. If women in beekeeping families, women who work as seasonal agricultural laborers in cotton and hazelnut fields, are included in this work, both royal jelly production will increase and a continuous source of income will be created for women." Altıparmak also called on women working as seasonal agricultural laborers, stating, "The number of women working as seasonal agricultural laborers in Turkey is quite high. We want to direct our women working in agricultural sectors such as cotton and hazelnut towards royal jelly production. By learning royal jelly milking, they can provide additional income for their families during the period between April and September when it is produced."

Altıparmak: "We Aim to Bring Turkey to the Position It Deserves in Royal Jelly"

Although our country has a rich flora in terms of plant flower resources for the life of bees, royal jelly production is at very low levels. Drawing attention to this situation, Altıparmak said: "According to the 2024 data of the Central Union of Turkish Beekeepers (TAB), royal jelly production is around 4 tons. However, it is said that there are 9 million hives across Turkey. The amount of royal jelly per hive is almost negligible. These figures show that Turkey has potential in royal jelly production, but more production is needed to rank among the top in the world. In export markets, a kilogram of royal jelly sells for 500-600 dollars. It is a high value-added product. By increasing production capacity, it is possible to gain a much larger market share and become a leader in this field globally. This is because Turkey's flora and fauna richness is incomparably vast compared to other countries. Globally, China has a large dominance in the royal jelly market. However, due to China's production standards, it is possible to seize a competitive opportunity. Turkey is an important candidate that can break this monopoly by producing hygienic and high-quality royal jelly. As Balparmak, we want to create a model that will be an example to the world at this point and make Turkey a global brand in the beekeeping profession and royal jelly production."

Critical Issue in Royal Jelly Production: Hygiene and Quality Standards

Stating that royal jelly is among the highly demanded products when produced correctly, Prof. Dr. Banu Yücel, Faculty Member at Ege University Faculty of Agriculture, emphasized that regular hive maintenance, proper feeding of bees, and performing the milking process under sterile conditions are critically important for quality in royal jelly production. Yücel underlined that collected royal jelly, being a perishable substance, must be stored in a cold chain and delivered to the consumer, adding, "Today, royal jelly, which stands out as a valuable component in the food, medical, and cosmetic industries, offers many benefits such as strengthening the immune system, accelerating cellular regeneration, and increasing energy levels.
Scientific research reveals that royal jelly has hormone-balancing, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties. Therefore, it is used as a supportive agent in some medical treatments. Due to its natural and inimitable structure, the demand for royal jelly is increasing globally. When processed under correct production and hygienic conditions, it stands out as an extremely beneficial component for health. The most important issues to pay attention to in production are maintenance management techniques and hygiene. Every detail, from clothing to gloves, to the cleanliness of the tools used, is important. Those interested in royal jelly production also need to be conscious and educated about hygiene and quality standards. By producing at ISO standards, Turkey can gain a strong position in the world market. With hygienic production standards and the integration of women's labor into these processes, we aim to bring Turkey to the position it deserves in royal jelly," she said.

About Balparmak Beekeeping Academy:

Beekeeping, in addition to its great importance for nature, is an ancient profession with a history of thousands of years. However, the average age rising above 50 and the decreasing interest of new generations in the beekeeping profession threaten the future of this profession. To address this critical issue and ensure the sustainability of beekeeping, Balparmak Beekeeping Academy was established in 2018 by Balparmak, with the contributions of the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD), in the Ula district of Muğla. The main goal of the Balparmak Beekeeping Academy is to attract young people, especially women, to this profession and to increase the quality and efficient production of value-added products such as royal jelly, pollen, and propolis, in addition to honey. The Academy has reached over 7000 beekeepers to date and has organized many training programs that will make a difference in the beekeeping sector. The trainings cover topics such as bee life and biology, colony care and management, bee diseases, queen bee production, bee product production, beekeeping equipment, regulations, and nectar-bearing plants. Modern beekeeping techniques and methods for more quality and efficient production based on scientific foundations are taught, and solutions to problems encountered in the sector are provided. In past years' trainings, collaborations were made with official institutions, and the trainings were completed with certified or Ministry of National Education diplomas. Balparmak Beekeeping Academy aims to secure the future of the beekeeping profession with its training programs and innovative applications. By ensuring quality and efficient production in the beekeeping sector, attracting new generations to this profession, and increasing the presence of women in the sector, beekeeping will achieve a more sustainable structure both economically and ecologically.

Balparmak Chairman of the Board Özen Altıparmak, stating that 7,000 beekeepers have been reached through the training activities of the Balparmak Beekeeping Academy since 2018: "Fraudulent honey-like products sold cheaply detach beekeepers from their profession; we need to bring young people and women into the profession."

Turkey has a very rich flora in terms of beekeeping and bee products. According to official data, Turkey produces close to 120,000 tons of honey, while research companies and leading industry figures estimate it to be around 60-70,000 tons. There is a very significant danger awaiting Turkey. Families who engage in nomadic beekeeping under difficult conditions have started to abandon their profession after failing to cope with counterfeit, adulterated, and fraudulently produced honey-like products. The youth from beekeeping families also no longer wish to continue the profession as they see no future in it. Due to these problems, the average age of beekeepers has risen to 55. Ancient beekeeping knowledge, typically passed down through generations as a family profession, is also facing the threat of extinction.

Balparmak, which has been working hand in hand with beekeepers to develop the sector for almost half a century, has been striving for many years to ensure the sustainability of the beekeeping profession. Established in 2018, the Balparmak Beekeeping Academy provides training on bee health while also trying to attract young people, especially women, to the profession. Speaking at the "Honey Bee Health" training, which marked the beginning of the Balparmak Beekeeping Academy's 2025 training programs, Balparmak Chairman of the Board Özen Altıparmak said: "I have dedicated my life to honey and bees. To better understand the journey of the bee and honey, I traveled mountains and hills with beekeepers, sleeping in tents. I know very well how difficult a profession beekeeping is. For half a century, I see it as a responsibility to protect and sustain this profession, which is both our business and our strength, towards natural honey, bees, and our consumers."

Altıparmak pointed out that the Beekeeping Academy specifically aims to bring women and young people into the beekeeping profession, stating, "The beekeeper population is aging. The average age of beekeepers in Turkey has risen above 50. This is a profession that needs to be done as a family. Young people and women are almost nonexistent in this field. For example, royal jelly, which is among value-added bee products, requires a very sensitive production process. Therefore, women's labor holds great value in this product. Another important point regarding these products is that the production of value-added and more profitable products like royal jelly, pollen, and propolis, in addition to honey, is also crucial for the country's exports. Increasing the production of these products can significantly contribute to the Turkish economy."

Altıparmak emphasized that Turkey has unique potential for beekeeping thanks to its rich floral diversity, but underlined that the problem of fraudulent honey-like products spoils the mood of everyone in the industry. Altıparmak continued: "It saddens us all to see honey-like products made from sugar syrups taking their place on shelves labeled as 'honey.' According to official data, nearly 120,000 tons of honey are sold in our country, but my half-century of experience tells me that only 60-70,000 tons of this amount is natural honey. So, what about the remaining half? Real beekeepers, who do their job properly, rightfully react to this situation and become disheartened with the profession. It's demoralizing for them to see the honey they produce with their families, traveling mountains and valleys for 8-9 months a year through countless difficulties, placed on the same shelf as fake products. Due to this problem, young people and beekeeping families no longer want to pursue this profession, whose profitability has decreased. Because they see no future."

Altıparmak stated that the average age in the beekeeping profession has risen above 50 and that the profession cannot be passed on to new generations, noting that he has been trying to draw attention to this danger for years. With this foresight, he established the Balparmak Beekeeping Academy in 2018 and started training programs, saying, "Our goal is to bring young people, especially women, into the profession. In our training sessions, we explain how to achieve higher quality and more efficient production, and methods for combating bee diseases, based on scientific principles. We mobilize our R&D and laboratory capabilities to protect the beekeeper's labor and livelihood. As Balparmak, we have taken responsibility. In our R&D center, we conduct extensive research to combat counterfeiting and adulteration, and develop methods to detect all kinds of fraud that will make a global impact. For a lasting solution, all of us – beekeeper associations, government officials, and brands in the sector – need to come together and unite our forces."

Altıparmak stated that they have reached more than 7,000 beekeepers through the Balparmak Beekeeping Academy, and continued: "Among these beekeepers, there are those who practice their profession with great mastery. There are also women beekeepers who have opened new business lines for themselves by processing products such as beeswax, pollen, royal jelly, and propolis. Seeing them gives me hope for our sector and renews my strength to continue the fight. Now, it is necessary to expand this chain further without breaking it. Therefore, we will continue our training and support. Our expert professors, Mr. Levent Aydın and Kenan Gişan, honor us by participating in the training sessions and sharing their valuable knowledge with our beekeepers. We are indebted to them. Also, I would like to thank my friends in beekeeper associations, Onur Çilenk, President of the Istanbul Beekeepers Association, and Mustafa Ör, President of the Sakarya Beekeepers Association. Because this is a strong team effort where everyone understands and supports each other. We are proud to be together with every stakeholder who does their job honestly, works diligently, and earns a living. We will continue to do our best to make this unity sustainable."

Agriculture is also important for sustainable beekeeping.

Altıparmak noted that making beekeeping sustainable is crucial not only for honey and bee product production but also for other agricultural products on our tables, stating: "75% of the vegetables and fruits we put on our plates are produced thanks to bees pollinating plants. Climate change, incorrect and uncontrolled agricultural spraying, and the elimination of bees' natural nectar sources reduce the bee population on one hand, while on the other hand, they deprive us of a very valuable food source. Yet, honey is one of the special food substances that can remain unspoiled for many years on Earth... A bee can fly approximately 8 km from its hive to collect honey. Therefore, environmental conditions and uncontrolled spraying of agricultural areas are the two factors that most harm bee populations and honey quality. If we don't take action today, both the food on our tables will decrease tomorrow, and the quality of honey will deteriorate. That's why using organic pesticides and applying agricultural pesticides at night when bees are not flying is important."

"We can increase yield per hive from 13 kilograms to 25 kilograms"

Professor Dr. Levent Aydın, a faculty member at Bursa Uludağ University Veterinary Faculty, who provided information on disease pests affecting bee health and their control, also emphasized that honey yield per hive in Turkey depends on many factors such as environmental factors, climatic conditions, and the health of pollinating bees. He stated, "The world average yield per hive, calculated using FAO data, is approximately 18.1 kg. Turkey's average honey yield per hive is around 14 kg. Although our country has an advantageous position in terms of floral diversity, the climate crisis and environmental pollution we face today make it difficult to fully utilize this advantage. Therefore, our primary goal is to teach beekeeping scientifically. We aim to bring women and young people into the sector, and also support existing beekeepers with modern beekeeping techniques training. Because with proper technical training, Turkey has the potential to concretely increase productivity and quality. We can increase yield per hive from 13 kilograms to 25 kilograms."

Honey is the most adulterated food product.

Dr. Emel Damarlı, Balparmak R&D and Quality Director, noted that honey and other bee products are the most adulterated food products, emphasizing that they have made groundbreaking discoveries in analyzing counterfeit and adulterated honey that will serve as an example to the world. Damarlı explained Balparmak's work on counterfeiting and adulteration as follows: "We are fighting against the presence of unpacked honey or products with insufficient inspection on shelves in our country. Thanks to the technological investment we made in our Balparmak R&D Center in 2022, we can detect fraudulent honey, which is made from various sugar syrups such as corn, beet, rice, and agave, as well as the presence of food dyes and enzyme additives used to give these syrups the perception of real honey, in a highly accurate and sensitive format in a very short period of 25 minutes."

Beekeepers' Opinions

Beekeeper Nihan Kofuroğulları:

"I am actually a nurse and currently studying for my second university degree. This training has truly taught us a lot. It is especially important for women to do this job because we women are quite skilled in this field."

Beekeeper Mustafa Kılınç:

"I started beekeeping a year ago. Before that, I worked in e-commerce. I moved away from Istanbul and moved south with the bees. I believe this training will greatly benefit all beekeepers because the topics discussed here directly address all our shortcomings. There are big differences between those who practice beekeeping consciously and those who don't, but this training will take beekeeping a step further. Beekeeping is a difficult profession; after all, we are dealing with a living creature. We move it to a hive, but just leaving it there is not enough. We need to give the bee its freedom and act according to its space. I believe that if I am to contribute to the world, I can do it through beekeeping."

Beekeeper Gözde Erdemir Aktürk:

"I live in Istanbul and I do beekeeping here. Actually, I was the CEO of an iron and steel company for 12 years. But after experiencing a health problem, I decided I didn't want to continue such a stressful job and turned to agriculture. After receiving training in beekeeping, I completely quit agriculture and focused on beekeeping. The intricacies of beekeeping are usually learned by word of mouth. However, this can lead to the spread of some misinformation. Beekeeping training plays a very important role in correcting these misconceptions. For example, I used to think that weak colonies should be supported by strong colonies, but I learned this mistake in the training. Also, considering climate change, we need to adapt our production strategies accordingly. From now on, I aim to do beekeeping completely. Neither merchant nor trade... I want to raise my bees in fresh air. This job has become a passion for me. My goal is to produce valuable products such as good honey, quality pollen, and royal jelly in this country."

About Balparmak Beekeeping Academy:

Beekeeping, in addition to its great importance for nature, is an ancient profession with a history spanning thousands of years. However, the average age rising above 50 and the decreasing interest of new generations in the beekeeping profession threaten the future of this profession. To address this critical issue and ensure the sustainability of beekeeping, the Balparmak Beekeeping Academy was established by Balparmak in Ula, Muğla, in 2018 with the contributions of the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD).

The main objective of the Balparmak Beekeeping Academy is to attract young people, especially women, to this profession, and to increase the quality and efficient production of value-added products such as royal jelly, pollen, and propolis, in addition to honey. To date, the Academy has reached more than 7,000 beekeepers and organized many training programs that have made a difference in the beekeeping sector. The training covers topics such as bee life and biology, colony care and management, bee diseases, queen bee production, bee product production, beekeeping equipment, regulations, and nectar-bearing plants. Methods for producing higher quality and more efficiently in light of modern beekeeping techniques and scientific principles are taught, and solutions to problems encountered in the sector are provided. In previous years, the training programs were completed with certified or Ministry of National Education diplomas in cooperation with official institutions.

The Balparmak Beekeeping Academy aims to secure the future of the beekeeping profession with its training programs and innovative practices. By ensuring quality and efficient production in the beekeeping sector, attracting new generations to this profession, and increasing the presence of women in the sector, beekeeping will achieve a more sustainable structure both economically and ecologically.

Balparmak, which has been working for half a century to preserve honey, the miraculous gift of bees and nature, and to bring it to tables in its natural state, draws attention to the source of naturalness with its awareness project "Where Does This Naturalness Come From?". Balparmak Chairman of the Board Özen Altıparmak shares her message about the project, saying, "As Balparmak, we respectfully take over this natural collaboration that continues with the miracle of nature, the labor of bees, and the sacrifice of beekeepers. We carefully follow the unique story of honey from nature to your tables and bring it to you by preserving it. This is where the naturalness of our honey comes from."

It is a well-known fact that nature will continue to exist without us, but humanity cannot survive without nature. Despite knowing this truth, humans, who have the ability to perceive their effects on their surroundings, make decisions every day that harm nature, the environment, the ecosystem, and themselves. They destroy nature, what comes from nature, what is natural, and replace it with artificial equivalents. The most striking example of this is honey... Yet, natural honey, which has not been subjected to any artificial intervention, almost stops time itself. One of the most striking examples of this is the sealed honey jars discovered by archaeologists in Tutankhamun's tomb in the Egyptian pyramids, dating back to the pre-BC period. These jars were preserved intact for thousands of years. The enzymes naturally found in honey, which prevent bacterial growth, have protected it for centuries. This extraordinary situation proves that honey can exist as a food independent of the effects of time. Therefore, important duties fall upon beekeepers, industrialists, and consumers alike to ensure the survival of bees and the natural state of honey.

Beekeeping: An Ancestral Profession and Nature's Trust

Balparmak, which has been working for nearly half a century with the mission of elevating honey to its deserved highest value, leads the sector in this regard. Özen Altıparmak, Chairman of the Board of this well-established brand, which has implemented countless social responsibility and awareness projects about bees and natural honey and whose history dates back nearly half a century, says, "As the sector leader, we see this effort as our responsibility to our country, to our hardworking beekeeper friends who do their job properly, and to our consumers." Altıparmak emphasizes that it is very difficult for natural honey, obtained with great effort by beekeepers, to compete with fraudulent, honey-like products that unfortunately remain on many supermarket shelves, and explains how important beekeeping is as a profession with these words: "Beekeeping is an ancestral profession in our country and is carried out as a family in the form of nomadic beekeeping. This arduous profession, accompanied by all members of the family – women, men, babies, children, young and old – is carried out under harsh natural and living conditions."

Strong Fight to Obtain and Protect Natural Honey

“This challenging journey, which begins in the spring months when nature awakens and flowers begin to bloom, continues until mid-December. However, the difficulties experienced by beekeepers are not limited to this; in this labor-intensive profession, the problem of imitation and adulteration, i.e., fraud in honey, is also becoming a growing threat. Beekeepers who work year-round in harmony with nature for natural honey production and do their job properly have been forced to fight against fake and adulterated products in recent years. As Balparmak, we work to prevent all kinds of fraud to protect consumers and beekeepers, develop innovative and comprehensive analysis methods with our advanced R&D power, and wage a very serious fight against fraud in honey.”

Sustainable Support for the Beekeeping Profession with Balparmak Beekeeping Academy

“We analyze the honey that comes to our facility at our APİLAB Quality Control Laboratory with at least 100 parameters, including new methods we developed at our R&D center, which is the first in Turkey in the field of honey and other bee products, and the 8th in the food sector. We only package and present to our consumers' tables with Balparmak assurance those that we are sure are natural. On the other hand, we also implement educational projects to support the sustainability of the beekeeping profession, which is getting older and is no longer a career choice. For this, we decided to expand the scope of our Orchid project, which we started in 2015, and have the project continue under the name Balparmak Beekeeping Academy. Since 2018, the Balparmak Beekeeping Academy has been supporting the development of our beekeeper friends with the mission of bringing women and youth in rural development areas into beekeeping. In addition, our academy provides training to update the technical knowledge of our existing beekeepers. With these trainings that support more efficient and quality bee product production, we are working to ensure the sustainability of beekeeping.”

Follow the Trail of Honey from Hive to Table!

Balparmak makes it possible to safely access natural honey with its "Where Does This Naturalness Come From" traceability project offered to its consumers. With this project, Balparmak provides consumers with the opportunity to verify their products and access product analysis reports through the QR code application placed on Balparmak products. Balparmak Chairman of the Board Özen Altıparmak expresses the importance they attach to this project with these words: "We want our consumers to be able to see that the product they take home and put on their table is natural and meets all quality standards, from which region it comes, and the plant flower source of the pollen in it. Thus, after having all the information about the product, all that remains is for them to consume it with pleasure and peace of mind. We see this as a requirement of our 45 years of sector leadership and our responsibility to our consumers."

Balparmak Calendar 2025 also features naturalness

Balparmak, which also carried the "Where Does This Naturalness Come From" traceability project to its 2025 calendar, conveys the following message in the Balparmak Calendar, which has been published uninterrupted for 33 years and is eagerly awaited by consumers every new year:

“Nature is the beginning of everything. The sun rising above us every morning, lush green forests, fragrant flowers, rain meeting the soil… A perfect order. Every part of nature works together for the continuation of life, and nature gives us life with the miracles it offers. The most hardworking members of this admirable life cycle are undoubtedly bees.

Bees, nature's unique architects, continue life without even realizing it as they wander from flower to flower in perfect harmony in their own world. The pollen carefully carried by these tiny creatures revitalizes life. The real miracle of bees comes from those magical drops they produce with patience and dedication; honey! Bees’ gift to humanity, the natural taste of the world.

Could this miracle of bees ever reach us without the passion of beekeepers? Beekeepers are one of the most valuable parts of this precious process. They lovingly and wholeheartedly do their jobs to preserve the naturalness of honey. They draw inspiration from nature and approach bees and nature with great care. Beekeepers continue to keep the ancestral profession of beekeeping alive with this unique partnership they have established with bees.

We respectfully take over this natural collaboration that continues with the miracle of nature, the labor of bees, and the sacrifice of beekeepers. We carefully follow this unique story of honey, from nature to your table, and bring it to your tables, dear Balparmak lovers, by preserving its naturalness. We work with all our might to ensure that the story of natural honey continues for generations, and we are proud to be a part of this fascinating story. This is where the naturalness of Balparmak comes from.”