Table of Contents
Introduction
In recent years, terms that describe the way food is harvested, collected, and produced have gained popularity. Words like natural, organic, whole, and raw are used to create a perception of a “healthy choice” in the minds of consumers who are striving for clean eating. At Manuka Doctor, we take pride in our Mānuka honey and understand the importance of consumers knowing what they are getting. One common question we receive is about raw Manuka honey and whether it is better for you. In this blog, we will provide the facts about raw Manuka honey and explain how Manuka Doctor’s range fits in.
What is Raw Manuka Honey?
Raw, when it comes to food, typically means that it has not been pasteurized or heat-treated during the packing process to preserve its nutritional benefits. However, the term “raw” honey is not regulated, leading to misleading claims and differing definitions among brands. It is important to note that all honey goes through certain processes before it is packed into a jar.
Is Manuka Doctor’s Honey Raw?
Recognizing the lack of regulations and the confusion surrounding the definition of “raw” honey, we took the initiative to research and find an independent certification body that could validate our claims. After extensive auditing, Manuka Doctor is proud to be certified as Raw by the International Clean Food Certification Body.
Manuka Doctor is the only honey company globally to carry the “Certified R.A.W” Certification mark, which ensures that our honey is minimally processed, made with non-GMO ingredients, bioavailable, safe, and contains organic ingredients. This certification provides our customers with the assurance that they are receiving the highest quality products.
Is Manuka Doctor’s Honey Filtered?
When raw Manuka honey is extracted from beehives, it may contain wax, propolis, and other debris left behind by the bees. At Manuka Doctor, we filter our honey before packing it to ensure that you receive a high-quality, creamy honey that is free from any foreign objects. This filtering process ensures that our honey meets the expectations of our customers.
What Does Creamed Mean?
Creaming is a natural process that occurs when honey granulates and the natural sugars return to their solid state. This can lead to the formation of sugar crystals in the honey, which are completely harmless but may be unsightly. To prevent the formation of crystals, we cream our honey.
Creamed honey has a smooth, spreadable consistency and a lighter color compared to liquid honey of the same floral type. When you open a jar of Manuka Doctor honey, it will have the same taste whether you are in the USA or New Zealand, where it was packed. Some Manuka honey may be un-creamed, resulting in a more grainy texture and larger sugar crystals.
Storing Manuka Honey: Refrigeration or Not?
Now that we have covered the basics of raw Manuka honey, let’s move on to the topic of refrigeration. The question often arises whether Manuka honey should be refrigerated or not. The answer is that refrigeration is not necessary for storing Manuka honey. In fact, refrigeration can have adverse effects on the quality and texture of the honey.
Manuka honey has a naturally low moisture content and high sugar content, which create an inhospitable environment for bacteria and other microorganisms to grow. This makes it highly resistant to spoilage. When stored properly in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight, Manuka honey can maintain its quality and freshness for a long time.
Refrigeration can cause several issues with Manuka honey. The cold temperature can cause the honey to crystallize more quickly, resulting in a grainy texture. Additionally, the moisture in the refrigerator can introduce water into the honey, leading to fermentation and spoilage. The fluctuating temperature in the fridge can also cause condensation, which can promote the growth of mold and yeast.
To ensure the best quality and taste, it is recommended to store Manuka honey in a pantry or cupboard at room temperature. Make sure the lid is tightly closed to prevent any moisture or contaminants from entering the jar. If your Manuka honey does crystallize, simply place the jar in a warm water bath to liquefy it again.
The Benefits of Manuka Honey
Manuka honey is not only delicious but also offers numerous health benefits. It is known for its unique antibacterial properties, which can help fight against harmful bacteria and promote wound healing. Manuka honey is also rich in antioxidants, which can help protect the body against oxidative stress and inflammation.
Additionally, Manuka honey has been used in traditional medicine for its soothing properties. It can help alleviate sore throats, coughs, and digestive issues. Some studies have also suggested that Manuka honey may have potential anti-cancer properties and could aid in the management of diabetes.
Conclusion
In conclusion, raw Manuka honey is a valuable and nutritious food that can be enjoyed in its natural form. Manuka Doctor’s honey is certified as Raw by an independent certification body, providing assurance of its quality and authenticity. It is important to store Manuka honey properly in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight, to maintain its quality. Refrigeration is not necessary and can actually negatively impact the honey’s texture and taste. So, go ahead and indulge in the delicious taste and health benefits of Manuka honey without worrying about refrigeration.
