Table of Contents
Introduction
Manuka honey has gained popularity for its unique properties and potential health benefits. However, due to its high demand and limited supply, there is a growing concern about the authenticity of the honey labeled as “Manuka.” Estimates suggest that up to half of all honey sold as “Mānuka” may not contain what it claims on the jar. To ensure that you are getting the real deal and not a poor-quality imitation, it is essential to follow a checklist when purchasing Manuka Honey. This article will guide you through the key factors to consider to ensure the authenticity and quality of the Manuka Honey you buy.
1. Is it from New Zealand?
New Zealand has strict regulations on the importation of honey, which means that if a honey has come from New Zealand, it must have been made there. Additionally, all pots of Manuka Honey exported from New Zealand to countries like the US must meet stringent standards to prove that they are made from the nectar of the Mānuka bush.
In December 2017, the New Zealand government introduced rules that require every batch of honey to be tested in an independent laboratory. These tests determine the presence of four chemical markers and one DNA marker that are unique to the Mānuka bush. If the honey does not contain all five markers, it cannot legally be exported and labeled as “Manuka Honey.” Therefore, it is crucial to look for the gold “Tested Certified Mānuka” symbol on honey jars, as it proves that the honey has met the requirements.
2. Was it packed in New Zealand?
To ensure that your Manuka Honey has not been tampered with before it reaches the shelf, it is advisable to only buy honey labeled as “packed in New Zealand.” This indicates that the honey has been sealed into a jar before leaving New Zealand, protecting it from adulteration.
Manuka Honey is most susceptible to dilution with cheaper honeys, sugar syrup, or added chemicals when drums of genuine, certified New Zealand Manuka Honey get processed by third parties overseas. By looking for the “packed in New Zealand” promise, you can avoid purchasing honey that has been compromised.
3. What is its MGO rating – and where has it been tested?
Manuka Honey contains a natural compound called methylglyoxal (MGO), which has antibacterial properties. The MGO rating number indicates the amount of MGO in the honey and is a sign of the honey’s activity or strength. Generally, the higher the number, the stronger the honey’s properties.
To have added confidence in your purchase, look for suppliers that test their honey in an independent laboratory both in New Zealand and upon arrival. The jars should state that they have been tested or validated “in New Zealand.” This ensures that the honey’s MGO rating is accurate and reliable.
4. What does it say on the label?
Carefully reading the label of the honey jar can help you determine whether it is genuine Manuka Honey or an imitation. Some honey jars are designed to resemble Manuka Honey when they are not the authentic product. However, by paying attention to the label, you can make an informed decision.
Do not be misled by statements such as “100% pure” or “100% New Zealand honey,” as these do not guarantee that the honey is genuine Manuka Honey. An authentic New Zealand Manuka Honey will always state whether it is “monofloral” or “multifloral.” These are two official definitions of Manuka Honey set by the New Zealand Government. “Monofloral” means that the honey has been primarily made from Mānuka nectar, while “multifloral” means that it is a mix of Mānuka nectar and other nectars.
If a honey does not specify whether it is “monofloral” or “multifloral” and instead states that it is a “blend” or has been “blended,” it is highly likely that it has been mixed with cheaper European or Asian honey and is not a genuine New Zealand Manuka Honey product. While this practice is legal as long as it is declared on the label, it means that the honey may contain very little MGO, the natural compound that gives Manuka Honey its special properties.
5. Does it have the “Hive to Home” promise?
Reputable honey sellers can trace any jar of honey back to the beekeeper who harvested it. They keep records of the drums of honey that go into each batch they sell. When buying Manuka Honey, it is essential to check whether the packaging promises traceability from “hive to home.” This means that you can be confident that the honey comes from a hive of real New Zealand Manuka Honey.
By following this checklist, you can ensure that you are purchasing authentic Manuka Honey that has been tested and meets the strict standards set by the New Zealand government. This will help you avoid falling victim to the sale of poor-quality imitations and ensure that you are getting the real, valuable product that offers the unique properties and potential health benefits associated with Manuka Honey.
For more information on Manuka Honey testing, visit https://aboutmanukahoney.com.