In a recent government test run on 102 dead bees, it was found that 75% of specimens contained high levels of a seed coating insecticide called neonicotinoid. This insecticide, used to cover corn and soy seeds before planting in springtime, has been identified as "highly toxic" to bees, as stated by the American non-profit organization Xerces Society. Neonicotinoids are transmissible to bees through contaminated dust produced by coating and planting processes, and affect the bees' nervous systems in fatal ways.

Dan Davidson, of the Ontario Beekeepers Association, states that this is the second consecutive year where mass bee fatalities have occurred. Despite mitigation strategies released last year by the Ontario government, this year is looking to be worse in outcome. Health Canada'a Pest Management Regulatory Agency (PMRA) claimed that the present corn and soy planting practices are "not sustainable" and that "protective measures", such as lubricants to reduce dust and label requirements for neonicotinoid products, must be implemented.

Currently, according to the Grain Farmers of Ontario, neonicotinoids are found on nearly all corn kernels planted in the province. Ontario Premier Kathleen Wynne has stated that eduation and awareness of farmers using neonicotinoids is crucial and alternatives to these products must be explored.