Honey Researchers to Discuss Honey's Role in Medicine

and Functional Foods / Honey in the Medicine Cabinet! LONGMONT, Colo. (PROTEXT) - Scientists will meet to discussthe future of the beekeeping industry at Apimondia'99, anInternational Congress to be held in Vancouver, BC, September 12-18, 1999. Of particular importance is the research into honey'spromise for use in medicine, and as a functional food ingredient. (Photo: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/19990827/LAF018 ) On Tuesday, September 13, Dr. Peter C. Molan, AssociateProfessor of Biochemistry at the University of Waikato, N Z willbe a keynote speaker. In his presentation "Establishing Honey asa Recognized Medicine," Dr. Molan will present the latestresearch results of the effectiveness of honey against theantibiotic-resistant strains of bacteria that pose problems forinfection control in hospitals. These "super bugs" are assensitive as the normal strains to the antibacterial activity ofhoney. Clinical trials have demonstrated that honey dressings rapidlyclear bacteria from infected wounds. A clinical trial has alsodemonstrated that simply dressing with honey is just as effectiveas aggressive surgical removal of infected tissue as a treatmentfor necrotising fasciitis, the "flesh-eating" bacteria. Dr. Molanwill also present research results showing the effectiveness ofhoney in killing the streptococci that cause that infection. Dr. Molan heads the university's Honey Research Unit,recognized for its expertise in the composition of honey and itsantimicrobial activity. Current research includes: -- Assessment of the effectiveness of the antibacterialproperties

of honey against bacterial species involved ingastroenteritis. -- Identification of the oligosaccharide constituents of honey

that are growth factors for probiotic bifidocbacteria. -- Comparing honeys for their content of components with

antioxidant activity. To facilitate international sharing of honey researchinformation, Dr. Molan will co-chair a scientific roundtablediscussion at Apimondia'99 on September 12 at 7:30 P.M.Scientists involved in pharmaceutical and nutraceutical honeyresearch will discuss their current work and future researchneeds. For information contact Mary Ann Johnson at (USA) 415-268-5421 or mjohnson@zfpartners.com. ots Original Text Service:National Honey Board Internet: http://www.newsaktuell.deContact: Mary Ann Johnson Tel.: (USA) 415-268-5421 e-mail:mjohnson@zfpartners.com for National Honey Board Photo:http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/19990827/LAF018 PR NewswirePhoto Desk Tel.: (USA) 888-776-6555 or Tel.: (USA) 201-369-3467

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