It's bursting with nutrients and a great source of protein. It tastes fantastic in smoothies, sorbets and muesli.

The nutritional highlights: All varieties of pollen are high in vitamins, minerals and enzymes; it will compensate for deficiencies which have developed as a result of an unsuitable diet; balances bowel; flora; high in vitamins and minerals especially B vitamins; all types of pollen have a high mineral content and all in perfect ratios; high iron content; helps to limit calcium loss and thus helps guard against osteoporosis; high in zinc – protects the immune system and used in energy production.

Contraindications
Bee pollen can be beneficial to hay fever sufferers, however if you have multiple allergies then proceed with caution. Also pollen is not usually recommended for anyone who has renal insufficiency or is on dialysis.

Where to buy
If you're going to buy bee pollen it is best to buy fresh, frozen pollen. Dried pollen does not have the same nutrient profile. To purchase visit www.naturo
vita.co.uk, go to the online shop and select super food supplements.

Selecting and storing
There are four different types of pollen listed at www.naturovita.co.uk with a description next to each to help you choose the right one for you. Pollen is delivered ambient and must be stored in the freezer once it has been delivered to you.

Recipe
The best way to eat bee pollen is with fruit, as these two foods have a natural synergy. This is a fast, healthy food option for breakfast or a snack.
Super Berry Smoothie
75g blueberries
½ small mango
1 small banana
2tsp fresh, frozen bee pollen
75ml water
Place all the ingredients into a blender and blend until all the ingredients are well combined and lump free. Drink immediately as the pectin in the blueberries can make the smoothie very thick if left to stand.
You can make this recipe into a sorbet by using frozen banana and mango and using a food processor to mix the ingredients together. This is very cool and refreshing and infinitely more healthy than ice cream!
* Buy frozen mango in large Tesco, Hampton Hargate