Contamination of Honey and Wax with Malathion and Coumaphos Used Against theVarroaMite

SummaryMalathion and Asuntol (a.i. coumaphos) are two of the most common pesticides used by beekeepers in Greece to control the Varroa mite that attacks bees. Residue analysis indicates that these two substances can be found in honey, but only at levels that could not be dangerous for human health. Residues in wax were high for both malathion and coumaphos.In honey, the amounts of malathion and coumaphos diminished by 92% and 95%, respectively, during three months storage. Residues in wax appeared to be more stable.