bee mine

So it still lingers in the air. Call it love, call it whatever. But as the Valentine's Day hangover is wearing off, I find an article about another sweet thing. Ice Cream. Now, I don't particularly like ice cream. Actually I hate it. Anyway, Haagen-Dazs, which is owned by the less than environmentally conscious Nestle, is starting to realize what many "environmentalist have argued for some time now."

Here's what Grist had to say about it:

Haagen-Dazs is warning that a creature as small
as a honeybee could become a big problem for the premium ice cream maker's
business.

At issue is the disappearing bee colonies in
the United States, a situation that continue to mystify scientists and frighten
foodmakers.

That's because, according to Haagen-Dazs,
one-third of the U.S. food supply - including a variety of fruits, vegetables
and even nuts - depends on pollination from bees.

Haagen-Dazs, which is owned by Nestle, said
bees are actually responsible for 40% of its 60 flavors - such as strawberry,
toasted pecan and banana split.

So my opinion? I am glad companies are finally bringing to light these issues. A report such as this one, allows consumers to be, not only aware of what goes into their food, but what goes into the process of making it as well. We make blind consumption decisions, and are ill-informed of the consequences of something as simple as buying ice cream. This information probably won't save the world, but it is a step in the right direction of smarter consumption.

For more information visit these websites:

Funds for Research in the Death of Bees

Plea for Early Sighting of Bees

And if that wasn't enough, view Google News Search or Google Blog Search.