It turns out our bee industry is the only one worldwide that hasn’t been hit by the varroa mite, which has killed masses of colonies in the US and Europe.
Because our apiaries are pesticide-free, their beeswax is pharmaceutical grade – and in demand, especially for cosmetics in Europe.
As a result, the price here has jumped from $5 per kilo five years ago to $30 today – and hipsters are feeling the pinch.
Kirsty Hunter, from the Dead Man’s Beard Company in Victoria, has told the ABC they will eventually have to pass the higher prices to their customers – and perfectly groomed facial hair will be the first victim.
“The thought of having men walking around with untamed beards just fills me with dread and I hope that won’t happen,” she said.
There is the prospect of cheaper Chinese imports, but Ms Hunter says these just don’t match the quality of the local product.
“Beeswax holds the shape a lot better, so when you want those beautiful hipstery, twisty moustaches, that’s what you’re going for,” she said.
Time to buy shares in Gillette?
Discussion1 Comment
Add to it the global shortage of bees because of climate change we’re heading a horrible road with food also.