Compostos produzidos por abelhas, potencial tecnológico e aplicações industriais

Abstract

This study aims to expand the understanding of the production, composition, and quality of bee products (BP) – including honey, propolis, wax, pollen, royal jelly, and apitoxin – with a focus on differentiating each component and their industrial applications. The approach was carried out through a literature review in recognized academic databases such as: CAPES, Web of Science, MDPI and Google Scholar, aiming to contribute to the understanding of the chemical, functional, and bioactive properties of these compounds. The current context highlights the expansion of the honey and derivatives market, driven by the demand for natural and sustainable alternatives in response to the reduced consumption of industrialized products. The diversity of BP is directly related to environmental conditions, such as flora, climate, and territory, which influence their chemical characteristics and active principles. The technological potentials and industrial applications include: formulation of new drugs with melittin for the treatment of Chagas disease (Trypanosoma cruzi) and various types of cancer through selective mechanisms; use of propolis in the development of bioactive dressings for burn treatment; production of functional foods with pollen, enhancing the antioxidant stability of these compounds; utilization of Manuka honey in the development of cosmetics and structured oleogels; and the use of wax in the production of biodegradable and sustainable packaging. Furthermore, BP show promising applications in agriculture, reinforcing their role as strategic inputs for innovation and bioeconomy. It is concluded that Brazil, with its expanding production, consolidates itself as a globally competitive country, particularly due to the innovation potential and diversity of its products, with BP being not only a healthy alternative but also a driver of economic growth, expanding development prospects in food, pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, and sustainable packaging.