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Manuka Honey has taken the world by storm, thanks to its unique properties and potential health benefits. Two key compounds, Methylglyoxal (MG) and Leptosperin, are at the heart of what makes Manuka Honey so special. In this blog, we’ll delve into these compounds and explore the distinctions between MG and UMF, as well as Monofloral and Multifloral varieties.
Methylglyoxal (MG): The Star Player
Methylglyoxal is the superstar compound that sets Manuka Honey apart from other honey varieties. It’s a naturally occurring substance found in varying concentrations in all types of honey. However, the concentration of MG in Manuka Honey is much higher, thanks to the nectar of the Manuka tree’s blossoms.
MG is known for its powerful antibacterial properties. It’s responsible for Manuka Honey’s ability to combat infections and support overall health. The higher the MG level, the more potent the honey’s antimicrobial properties.
Leptosperin: The Fingerprint of Authenticity
Leptosperin is another essential marker in authentic Manuka Honey. It’s a naturally occurring sugar found in the nectar of Manuka tree blossoms. Leptosperin is crucial for verifying the authenticity of Manuka Honey because it’s not found in significant quantities in other honey varieties.
When testing honey for authenticity, scientists look for specific Leptosperin levels. High levels of Leptosperin are a strong indicator that the honey is genuine Manuka Honey.
MG vs. UMF: Decoding the Labels
You might have come across terms like “MG” and “UMF” on Manuka Honey labels. Let’s clarify what these mean:
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MG (Methylglyoxal) Rating: This indicates the concentration of Methylglyoxal in the honey. The higher the MG rating, the more potent the honey’s antibacterial properties. For example, MG 100+ means the honey contains at least 100 mg/kg of Methylglyoxal.
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UMF (Unique Manuka Factor): UMF is a comprehensive quality trademark that considers several markers, including MG and Leptosperin. It provides a broader assessment of the honey’s authenticity and quality. UMF ratings typically range from 5+ to 20+, with higher numbers indicating superior quality.
Monofloral vs. Multifloral: The Floral Origins
Manuka Honey can be classified as Monofloral or Multifloral based on the predominant nectar source:
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Monofloral: This honey comes primarily from the nectar of Manuka tree blossoms. It has a distinct flavor and stronger medicinal properties due to the higher concentration of MG and Leptosperin from the Manuka flowers.
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Multifloral: Also known as “bush honey,” Multifloral Manuka Honey is collected from various wildflowers and plants. While it may contain some Manuka nectar, it has a milder flavor and lower MG levels compared to Monofloral varieties.
In conclusion, the presence of Methylglyoxal and Leptosperin distinguishes genuine Manuka Honey from other types of honey. The MG and UMF ratings help consumers gauge the honey’s potency and quality, while the Monofloral and Multifloral designations indicate its floral origins. When choosing Manuka Honey, consider your specific needs and preferences, whether you’re seeking its unique health benefits or simply enjoying its rich, distinctive flavor. Whenua Honey Mānuka Honey is both MG-certified and UMF-certified by an independent third-party laboratory.