Smoke as a Tool and a Risk: Element Emissions and Health Implications in Beekeeping Practices

Smoke is a long-standing tool in beekeeping, traditionally used to calm bees and facilitate hive inspection. However, the combustion of various plant-based or commercial fuels to produce smoke may release particulate matter and trace elements with potential implications for both human and environmental health [1]. In this study, we assessed the total elemental content and airborne emissions from a selection of commonly available smoker fuels. A set of fuels—routinely used by beekeepers—was analyzed for total elemental composition using inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS) following acid digestion. In addition, combustion was performed under controlled conditions, and the particulate fraction of emitted smoke was collected using personal air-sampling pumps equipped with PTFE filters. The filters were subsequently analyzed via ICP-MS to quantify the element concentrations in the smoke. The results revealed the presence of several toxic or potentially elements in both the fuels and the emitted smoke, including Cd, Cr, Cs, Cu, Mn, Pb, and Zn. Elemental concentrations varied significantly among fuel types, indicating that fuel composition strongly influences emission profiles. From an occupational health perspective, repeated inhalation of contaminated smoke by beekeepers may pose risks, particularly for elements such as Cd and Pb, which are known for their chronic toxicity [2,3]. Furthermore, the dispersion of these air pollutants into the surrounding environment raises concerns about potential impacts on pollinator health and contamination of honey and other hive products. This study highlights the need to carefully evaluate the composition of smoker fuels and consider safer alternatives with lower environmental and toxicological impacts. Greater awareness and regulation of beekeeping practices could mitigate potential ecological risks and safeguard both human health and hive sustainability. [1] Chen, J., Li, C., Ristovski, Z., Milic, A., Gu, Y., Islam, M.S., Wang, S., Hao, J., Zhang, H., He, C. and Guo, H., 2017. A review of biomass burning: Emissions and impacts on air quality, health and climate in China. Science of the Total Environment, 579, pp.1000-1034. [2] Giampaoli, O., Messi, M., Merlet, T., Sciubba, F., Canepari, S., Spagnoli, M. and Astolfi, M.L., 2023. Landfill fire impact on bee health: beneficial effect of dietary supplementation with medicinal plants and probiotics in reducing oxidative stress and metal accumulation. Environmental Science and Pollution Research, pp.1-17. [3] Astolfi, M.L., Conti, M.E., Messi, M. and Marconi, E., 2022. Probiotics as a promising prophylactic tool to reduce levels of toxic or potentially toxic elements in bees. Chemosphere, 308, p.136261.