Are animal ethics and the consumption of honey or other bee products compatible?
Most people don’t think about animal ethics when it comes to beekeeping and/or the consumption and use of beehive by-products. It may be because bees are technically insects rather than animals (although they do belong to the Kingdom, Animalia), because they aren’t cute like bunnies and happen to pack a bit of a punch when they sting, or because the use of bee products generally doesn’t require widespread slaughter of our little friends. Below, I provide a discussion of some of the questions or issues concerning animal ethics when undertaking beekeeping as a hobby/way of life or when purchasing bee products for use or consumption. I am not providing a judgment or opinion on the matter. I have been omnivore, vegetarian, and vegan at various times in my life. I have been involved in beekeeping, and I am also a ‘creatures great and small’-rights supporter. This discussion is simply for educational purposes. The Relationship between Humans and Other Animals Views on the human-bee relations
