How to find the best Manuka honey

It’s known for its many unique properties, but not all Manuka honey is the same. Here’s what you need to know.

Ever tasted honey that’s thick, creamy and totes perfection whether you’re spreading it, swirling it or eating it straight off the spoon?

That’s what it’s like to enjoy Manuka honey.

The healing power of honey

Humans have been reaping the benefits of bees’ hard work for, quite literally, millennia.

A 2017 review from Iran found that evidence from Stone Age paintings shows the human love affair with honey originated at least 8000 years ago.

But it is Manuka honey’s benefits that have modern science excited.

What exactly is Manuka honey?

Different from regular pantry varieties, Manuka honey is made in New Zealand by bees that pollinate the native Manuka bush.

Respected in Maori culture for centuries, Manuka flowers bloom for a short time each year, making this unique honey a scarce resource.

Thicker, darker and sweeter than regular honeys, Manuka honey has been extensively researched and is renowned for its unique qualities.

While honey generally is a rich source of phenolic compounds (naturally occurring antioxidants) – they have been found to be highly concentrated in some Manuka honeys.

Genuine Manuka honey contains three distinct compounds known as methylglyoxal (MGO), dihydroxyacetone (DHA) and leptosperin.

Yes, they’re a mouthful, but they are also what makes this all-natural and delicious-tasting remedy the superstar that it is – and how you know your Manuka honey is the real deal.

MGO is a special compound that is more highly concentrated in Manuka honey than other pasture-type honeys, and it’s what makes it so extraordinarily good.

What’s the deal with Manuka and UMF ratings?

In the same way that not all honey is the same, not all Manuka honey is created equal.

High-quality New Zealand Manuka honey is certified UMF (which stands for Unique Manuka Factor) – an independent grading system for Manuka honey.

Comvita’s UMF™ Manuka Honey is available in a range of different UMF grades to suit every desire, with each batch independently analysed and certified for quality, purity and authenticity.

Comvita is New Zealand’s largest producer of UMF™-certified Manuka honey and has been a trusted source for honey and other bee products for more than four decades.

Enjoy a delicious spoonful daily or add to your tea, toast, yoghurt or smoothie as a daily superfood.

Or try some as a DIY face mask to keep your complexion glowing.

Sweet as can bee!

* Written by Liz McGrath. This post is brought to you by Comvita’s UMF™ Certified Mānuka Honey.