The honey jars lining shelves at local markets tell a bigger story than you might think.

 

Behind the beaches and cenotes, beekeepers in Leona Vicario are building a small but growing industry that blends tradition, quality, and smart organizing.

 

Two producer groups are leading the charge. One cooperative works with European honeybees, focusing on reliable production. Another private group cares for Melipona, the native stingless bees.

 

Melipona honey is rarer and prized for its flavor and traditional uses in baking, medicine, and beauty products, so it earns higher prices.

 

Support That's Moving the Needle

 

Municipal and state support has helped this growth. According to the Puerto Morelos government, beekeepers have received new colonies, apiaries, and safety gear like gloves, veils, and smokers.

 

The municipality tracks two societies in Leona Vicario, with eight Apis producers and five Melipona producers.

 

Together the community counts 35 producers who can generate up to 15 tons of honey in a good year, though the current annual baseline is around three tons as the sector formalizes and expands. 

 

The medium-term goal, officials say, is at least 20 tons per year to compete better in export markets.

 

Quality Seals and New Markets

 

Quality credentials are lining up. Producers earned the "Hecho en Quintana Roo" seal, helping open sales in Campeche, Yucatán, and Tabasco.

 

In 2025, they achieved a first export shipment to Canada, a big step for our local brands.

 

Authorities also plan to renew varroa-free certification for apiaries, which is key for bee health and required by many buyers.

 

Melipona Roots in the Yucatán

 

Melipona honey carries deep roots in the Yucatán. It is traditionally harvested from log hives called jobones and used for wellness in Maya communities.

 

It has a distinctive, slightly tangy taste and higher moisture content, which is normal for this honey.

 

Visitors can learn about Melipona at area attractions and conservation programs around the Riviera Maya.

 

A Sweet Fit for Puerto Morelos

 

Beekeeping fits Puerto Morelos. It creates income for families, preserves native bees, and builds pride in local products.

 

With steady support, strong hygiene standards, and smart marketing, our honey can keep reaching new shelves while protecting the bees that make it all possible.