Why Is New Zealand Manuka Honey So Popular?

New Zealand Manuka honey has become a very popular item and is highly sought after worldwide. As well as being a tasty sweet substance, strong evidence suggests Manuka honey can also be classified as a super-food.

According to the 2020 Apiculture Monitoring Report from the New Zealand Ministry of Primary Industries, more than 10,280 tonnes of monofloral Manuka honey was exported. So what exactly is it about this very niche substance that has the world buzzing?

This article will go through the ins and outs of what makes Manuka honey unique and what to look out for when purchasing your own.

What Is Manuka?

Manuka is the name of a native New Zealand tree that flourishes on northern or eastern hillsides. The Manuka tree (or Leptospermum scoparium) is found across New Zealand. However, the flowers of this native plant only bloom for 12 days a year. This incredibly narrow window is what makes premium Manuka honey so hard to come by.

The indigenous Maori population have always considered the Manuka tree to be remarkable. With small white flowers and small green-pointed leaves - the Manuka flower has very notable characteristics.

The Maori people would use several aspects of the Manuka plant to treat wounds, burns, inflammation and digestive issues. This Maori practice was called Rongoa Maori. In 1980, scientists began to discover the unique benefits of the Manuka plant that were actually being transferred to this delicious honey.

What Is Manuka Honey Used For Today?

In today’s world, pure Manuka honey has several uses that span skin treatments to ingredients in cooking and baking. Many have reported on the antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties of Pure Manuka honey from New Zealand.

Some suggested uses for Manuka honey include:

• DIY Facial Mask
• Sugar Alternative
• Premium Baking/Cooking Ingredient
• Throat Soothing

A 2007 study from the Journal of Leukocyte Biology found that Manuka honey stimulates immune cells. A further study in 2011 showed that Manuka honey benefits also included the reduction of growth of the sore throat-causing Streptococcus bacteria. 

It should come as no surprise that there are many reports regarding Manuka honey benefits.However, in this current age of industrialization, it’s essential to be aware of counterfeit Manuka honey. Not all honey is made the same, so you must find a reputable supplier.

Why Is Genuine Manuka Honey So Special?

The nation of New Zealand treats Manuka   Honey as a very sacred product. As such, the New Zealand Ministry of Primary Industries has set a legal, scientific definition of what qualifies as genuine Manuka honey.

Five critical attributes must be ticked for a Manuka honey product to be deemed as pure. This precaution assists in the elimination of counterfeit products being sold. Each unique benefit of Manuka honey is only experienced if the levels of the bioactive ingredients are at a particular concentration.

These bioactive ingredients include:

• Leptosperin
• Methylglyoxal (MGO)
• Dihydroxyacetone (DHA) 

Each of these ingredients contributes to the antibacterial and anti-inflammatory benefits seen in the above scientific studies. These bioactives are also the key indicators determining the grade of the internationally recognised Unique Manuka Factor (UMF). 

Why Is UMF Certification Important?

The UMF certification is the most sought-after status for premium Manuka honey brands. With grades spanning 5+ to 31+, each level corresponds to the level of medicinal chemicals (as mentioned above). The higher the concentration of MGO, in particular, is a vital determining factor in grade level.

The rigorous testing undertaken by UMF guarantees the level of the beneficial ingredients. This assures customers that they are buying 100% pure UMF Manuka honey. 

Why PURITI is the Best Manuka Honey Brand in New Zealand

PURITI separates itself from many in the current market. We meet the legal and scientific definition of Manuka honey, as set by the New Zealand government. Additionally, we also exceed the minimum MGO concentrations needed for each coveted UMF grade level.

For example, a UMF 27+ grade requires an MGO concentration of 1362+; however, at PURITI, we set the minimum level for this grade at 1400+. Along with at least 11 anti-counterfeit measures made within our packaging, we provide absolute quality assurance to all of our customers. We don’t make concessions.

PURITI 

At PURITI, we deliver higher standards and higher quality than what is required. We believe in providing customers with the best Manuka honey on the market. Our extensive range of products is available for your perusal. To learn more about the benefits of Manuka honey, feel free to explore our website and other blogs.