Climate change affecting chestnut production in Portugal

Speaking to the news agency Lusa, Manuel Gonçalves explained that while spring featured balanced temperatures and a stable temperature-to-humidity ratio, a heatwave brought the chestnut tree flowering period—which typically occurs in July—forward, disrupting pollination.

“The chestnut flowering was very rapid, accompanied by intense heat; it didn’t allow the bees to forage—the plants simply didn’t provide the opportunity for the bees to collect nectar,” he said, noting that the flowering was “so fast” that some trees “began to bloom in the morning, and by the end of the day, the blossoms were completely dried out.”

In contrast to last year, a “decent” year for this type of honey, this year has seen losses of 80% to 90%. Beekeepers are harvesting only “a quarter of a super”—about two kilograms per hive—whereas an ideal yield would be “10 to 12 kilograms per hive.” According to the association’s president, this affects approximately 200 beekeepers within the Montesinho Natural Park.

Most chestnut honey is produced in the Trás-os-Montes region—specifically within the Montesinho Natural Park, which spans the municipalities of Bragança and Vinhais—an area that also accounts for a large share of the country’s chestnut production.

“This year, for instance, the production of chestnut honey is extremely low—and this is the variety that usually ‘saves’ the season and helps boost the overall average,” he stated. Because of its “product quality,” “value,” and “characteristics”—it is a “honey unlike any other,” with “better” and “more balanced” properties—chestnut honey has become increasingly sought after.

He noted that low production could impact prices. “Demand for chestnut honey has been increasing year after year—it consistently outstrips supply—and this year may bring some added value for beekeepers, with a potential rise in price,” he said.

Manuel Gonçalves, who also serves as president of the National Federation of Beekeepers of Portugal (FNAP), further told the news agency Lusa that overall honey production has declined nationwide. Yields averaged “seven to eight kilograms” per hive, whereas the typical average is between “10 and 15” kilograms per hive.