Beeswax wraps can extend food shelf life in war zones without power

In the midst of conflict and destruction, innovative solutions can emerge to tackle unexpected challenges. UK scientists are working with local beekeepers to create wax wrappings for perishables.

This initiative comes at a crucial time as Ukraine, Europe’s largest honey producer, faces significant disruptions in its energy infrastructure. As Russian attacks disrupt energy supplies and cause blackouts, this natural solution could help keep food fresh during the summer.

“People will know Ukraine is not in a great place at the moment,” said Professor Les Baille from Cardiff University, as quoted by BBC .

“As everyone knows, food goes off very quickly if there’s no way of preserving it. Using a beeswax wrap that can kill bugs, seems like a natural way of addressing this issue.”

The magic of beeswax mixtures

Cardiff-based scientists have been analyzing individual beehives to determine which ones offer the best protection for food. The research team has created various “recipes,” mixing ordinary items likely available in war zones to create wraps that can preserve food effectively.

“The magic is in the mixture,” said Baille. He explained that a piece of cloth or even paper, combined with beeswax and other naturally occurring antimicrobial plants like sage, forms the wraps. These beeswax wraps are traditionally used to extend the life of sandwiches but can be adapted for other perishable items as well.

The researchers focused on the use of propolis, a resin-like material produced by bees from trees, and beeswax due to their natural antimicrobial properties. They tested household materials such as cotton fabrics, food-grade paper, and cardboard, which were then infused with beeswax, propolis, and herbs like sage known for their antimicrobial properties.

“Beeswax is water repellent, so when used in packaging, it can protect against moisture,” said Dr. Yuliia Yudina from the National University Pharmacy at Kharkiv Polytechnic Institute. “We also know that beeswax is effective against bacteria and fungi too.”

Collaborative efforts between scientists and beekeepers

These beeswax wraps are being developed through careful research and teamwork between scientists and Ukrainian beekeepers. The researchers are studying individual beehives to find the best wax for preserving food.

“They have lots of beeswax and they have lots of bees ,” said Baille. “By finding the right wax that has the right properties, you have the chance to extend the life of your food further. That’s particularly important when you don’t have refrigerators and you don’t have a source of power.”

The wraps won’t keep food fresh indefinitely but can significantly extend its life by a few days. This extension is vital in conflict zones where power outages are common, leading to significant food waste.

“The situation in conflict zones and near the frontline is very hard. People there have no electricity or very often there are blackouts in these regions,” said Yudina to BBC .

“[The wrap] can be used for bread to keep it fresher, fruit and vegetables to keep them fresher.”

Spreading and impact in war zones

These beeswax wraps could benefit many areas beyond Ukraine. Researchers are spreading the knowledge and techniques widely. Ukrainian partners at Kharkiv Polytechnic Institute are sharing this information online and on social media.

Despite heavy fighting, they hope more Ukrainians will use this food preservation method.

“The situation in conflict zones and near the frontline is very hard. People there have no electricity or very often there are blackouts in these regions,” said Yudina. She emphasized that the power cuts have led to a significant amount of food waste.

“The wrap can be used for bread to keep it fresher, fruit and vegetables to keep them fresher,” Yudina explained.

The Ukrainian military has noticed the potential benefits of these beeswax wraps for their troops. Baille and his team hope their work will help not only Ukrainians but also people in other conflict zones.

By using the natural antibiotic properties of honey, a method used by ancient Greeks, they aim to make a small yet significant impact.

“We’ve actually had a response from the military in Ukraine, picking up this idea. For us, if we can just do a small thing to make this better, from our safe homes, then it’s worth it,” Baille concluded.