As the fall or autumn arrives in the Northern Hemisphere thoughts turn to making sure we are all fit and well and ready to take on all that the winter has to throw at us. As part of a well-balanced daily routine to be at your best for the next six months add up to a tablespoon of delicious and nutrient-packed  New Zealand manuka honey to your daily diet to support your system.

There are multiple Manuka honey brands available so to determine the best Manuka honey, look for the following factors:

1. UMF Rating: Look for the Unique Manuka Factor (UMF) rating on the label. A higher UMF (usually 10 and above) indicates higher potency and quality. UMF is a grading system that measures the honey’s authenticity and quality based on its antibacterial properties.
2. Certification: Choose brands that are certified by the UMF  and meet specific quality standards. This ensures that the essential quality components of the honey have been independently tested and will deliver the active ingredients that give certified New Zealand manuka honey its antibacterial, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, immuno-supportive and antifungal properties
3. MGO Content: Methylglyoxal (MGO) is one of the compounds responsible for its antibacterial properties in Manuka honey. Higher MGO levels (e.g., 100+ mg/kg) typically indicate stronger potency and anything below MGO 83 is not considered active manuka honey.
4. Source: Ensure that the honey is sourced from and packed in New Zealand, as this is where authentic Manuka honey is produced, packed and sealed for purity and authenticity. Check for information about the beekeeper or producer.
5. Labeling: Look for UMFHA license numbers and traceable batch number plus “Product of New Zealand”, a UMF™ rating and a UMF™ quality mark to ensure you can trust you’re getting high-quality Manuka honey without additives unique to New Zealand .
6. Taste and texture: While quality can be evaluated through testing, personal preference is also important. The intensity of flavour can change depending on the UMF™ rating as there are different active component levels in different grades of manuka honey. Taste different strengths, brands and varieties to find the flavor and texture you enjoy most.
7. Reviews and reputation: Research brands by reading reviews or consulting trusted sources or organizations that specialize in honey quality.  You can find all UMF™ certified brands in our member database here.

By considering these factors, you can make a more informed decision when purchasing Manuka honey.  If you want to learn more about manuka honey try our Manuka Mastery Short Course.