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Varroa mites remain one of the biggest threats facing honey bee colonies. Left unmanaged, these destructive parasites weaken adult bees, spread viruses throughout the hive, reduce honey production, and can ultimately lead to colony collapse. Effective varroa management isn't just a seasonal task—it's an essential part of maintaining strong, productive hives year-round.

That's why many New Zealand beekeepers are turning to VarroxSan®, an innovative slow-release oxalic acid strip designed to provide highly effective mite control while remaining simple, safe, and easy to use. Independent studies from around the world have reported average efficacy of around 96% when used according to label directions.

What Makes VarroxSan Different?

Unlike many traditional varroa treatments that rely on synthetic miticides or are heavily influenced by weather conditions, VarroxSan uses slow-release oxalic acid strips that provide a consistent dose over a treatment period of 42–56 days. This extended release allows the treatment to remain active across multiple varroa breeding cycles, helping to reduce mite populations as new mites emerge from brood cells.

The flexible fibreboard strips are designed to stay in place within the brood nest while bees naturally distribute the oxalic acid throughout the colony during their normal grooming and cleaning behaviour. This creates continuous contact with phoretic mites without requiring repeated applications.

Key Benefits of VarroxSan

Highly Effective Mite Control

Independent research conducted across multiple countries has demonstrated efficacy levels exceeding 90%, with average results approaching 97% under trial conditions. This makes VarroxSan an excellent tool for reducing mite pressure and protecting colony health.

Suitable for Organic Beekeeping

Oxalic acid is a naturally occurring organic compound found in many plants. VarroxSan is approved as an organic treatment and is suitable for certified organic beekeeping programmes where permitted. In New Zealand, it is recognised as a BioGro-certified organic input.

No Temperature Restrictions

Many beekeepers know the frustration of trying to fit treatments around ideal weather conditions. One of VarroxSan's biggest advantages is that it is not temperature dependent, providing greater flexibility when planning your seasonal varroa management programme.

Easy to Apply

There is no mixing, measuring or specialised application equipment required.

Simply:

• Use one strip for every 2.5 brood frames covered with bees.

• Fold each strip in half.

• Position the strips between brood frames.

• Leave them in place for 42–56 days before removal.

An Ideal Fit for Integrated Pest Management (IPM)

Successful varroa control isn't about relying on one treatment forever. Good Integrated Pest Management (IPM) involves monitoring mite levels regularly, rotating treatment modes of action, and selecting products that reduce the risk of resistance developing.

Because VarroxSan uses oxalic acid rather than synthetic miticides such as amitraz or pyrethroids, it offers beekeepers another valuable option for treatment rotation and resistance management.

Monitor Before You Treat

No matter which treatment you choose, knowing your mite levels is critical. Regular monitoring with an alcohol wash or approved mite testing method allows you to make informed treatment decisions and evaluate how well your chosen product has performed.

Testing before and after treatment helps ensure your colonies remain below damaging mite thresholds throughout the season.

Why Buy VarroxSan from Ceracell?

Ceracell is proud to supply New Zealand beekeepers with high-quality varroa management solutions backed by practical beekeeping experience.

Our 60-strip VarroxSan pack provides enough strips for up to 15 standard single brood box treatments, making it suitable for both hobbyist and commercial beekeepers. Whether you're preparing for spring build-up, managing post-harvest mites, or developing a long-term Integrated Pest Management programme, VarroxSan provides a convenient, highly effective solution to help keep your colonies healthy.

Healthy bees start with effective varroa control—and VarroxSan makes protecting your hives easier than ever.