Alim Eser balances fitness coaching with organic beekeeping in Erzurum

Alim Eser, a 46-year-old professional fitness and bodybuilding instructor from the Şenkaya district of Erzurum, manages a dual career as a dedicated organic honey producer. For 21 years, Eser has practiced beekeeping, and during the summer months, he manages 440 beehives alone in the high-altitude Doğanköy neighborhood at an elevation of 2,044 meters.

Eser emphasizes the organic nature of his production, noting that he avoids chemical products and works in challenging terrain. He aims to harvest between 8 and 10 tons of honey this season, citing high rainfall as a positive factor for productivity. Having conducted laboratory analyses on his products, he expresses confidence in the quality of his honey, stating he is a candidate for the top position in Turkey’s honey sector.

Addressing industry concerns, Eser warned consumers about the prevalence of counterfeit and sugar-added honey in the market, advising them to purchase from trusted producers. He also called upon the Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry to prevent the practice of feeding sugar to bees, advocating for greater support for natural and organic production methods.