Manuka honey is a unique type of honey that has been gaining popularity in recent years due to its potential health benefits. This honey is produced by bees that feed on the nectar of the Manuka tree, which is native to New Zealand. Manuka honey is known for its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, making it a popular choice for medicinal purposes.
Key Takeaways
- Manuka honey is a unique type of honey known for its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties.
- Manuka honey can be purchased online or in physical stores.
- When purchasing Manuka honey, it’s important to read the label carefully to ensure that you’re getting an authentic product with a UMF rating.
Understanding Manuka Honey
Origin and Benefits
Manuka honey is a type of honey that is produced in New Zealand by bees that pollinate the manuka bush. The manuka bush, also known as Leptospermum scoparium, is native to New Zealand and Australia. Manuka honey is known for its unique antibacterial properties, which are attributed to the presence of a compound called methylglyoxal (MGO).
Manuka honey has been used for centuries by the indigenous Maori people of New Zealand for its medicinal properties. It is believed to have a wide range of health benefits, including its ability to soothe sore throats, heal wounds, and boost the immune system. Manuka honey is also used in skin care products due to its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties.
Grading System
Manuka honey is graded based on its Unique Manuka Factor (UMF) rating. The UMF rating system was developed by the Unique Manuka Factor Honey Association (UMFHA) in New Zealand to ensure that consumers are getting genuine manuka honey. The UMF rating system takes into account the concentration of MGO and other compounds in the honey.
The UMF rating system ranges from 0 to 30, with higher UMF ratings indicating a higher concentration of MGO and other beneficial compounds. A UMF rating of 10 or higher is considered to be therapeutic-grade manuka honey.
When purchasing manuka honey, it is also important to look for reputable brands and stores. Some stores that sell manuka honey include Costco, The Vitamin Shoppe, Kroger, Fresh Thyme, and Whole Foods Market. Additionally, Mānuka Health is a well-known brand that sells manuka honey in over 45 countries worldwide.
Online Platforms to Buy Manuka Honey
When it comes to buying manuka honey online, there are several options available. Here are some popular online platforms where you can purchase manuka honey:
Amazon
Amazon is a well-known online retailer that offers a wide range of products, including manuka honey. You can find a variety of brands and types of manuka honey on Amazon, including raw, organic, and UMF-certified manuka honey. Amazon also offers customer reviews and ratings, which can help you make an informed decision before making a purchase.
eBay
eBay is another popular online platform where you can buy manuka honey. Like Amazon, eBay offers a wide range of brands and types of manuka honey, including raw, organic, and UMF-certified manuka honey. It is important to read the seller’s reviews and ratings before making a purchase on eBay to ensure you are buying from a reputable seller.
Brand Websites
Many manuka honey brands have their own websites where you can buy their products directly. This can be a good option if you are looking for a specific brand or type of manuka honey. Some popular Manuka honey brands with their own websites include Manuka Health, Comvita, and Wedderspoon.
Before making a purchase, it is important to read the product descriptions carefully to ensure you are getting the type and grade of manuka honey you are looking for. It is also important to check the seller’s reviews and ratings to ensure you are buying from a reputable source.
Physical Stores to Buy Manuka Honey
Manuka honey is a popular type of honey known for its unique taste and potential health benefits. While it is available online, many people prefer to buy it in physical stores. Here are some physical stores where you can buy manuka honey.
Supermarkets
Many supermarkets carry manuka honey. Here are some popular supermarket chains where you can find manuka honey:
- Whole Foods Market: Whole Foods Market is a popular supermarket chain that carries a wide variety of natural and organic products, including manuka honey. They offer different brands and grades of manuka honey, so you can choose the one that suits your needs and budget.
- Walmart: Walmart is a large retail chain that offers a variety of products, including manuka honey. They carry different brands and grades of manuka honey, so you can find one that fits your preferences and budget.
Health Food Stores
Health food stores specialize in natural and organic products, including manuka honey. Here are some popular health food stores where you can find manuka honey:
- GNC: GNC is a popular health food store that offers a variety of natural and organic products, including manuka honey. They offer different brands and grades of manuka honey, so you can choose the one that fits your needs and budget.
- Vitamin Shoppe: Vitamin Shoppe is another health food store that carries manuka honey. They offer different brands and grades of manuka honey, so you can find one that suits your preferences and budget.
Tips for Buying Authentic Manuka Honey
When looking to buy Manuka honey, it’s important to ensure that you are getting the real thing. Here are some tips to help you buy authentic Manuka honey:
- Look for a UMF certification logo on the jar: The Unique Manuka Factor (UMF) certification is a quality trademark that ensures the purity and quality of Manuka honey. The certification is given by the UMF Honey Association, and it guarantees that the honey contains the three key signature compounds that authenticate Manuka honey (Leptosperin, DHA, and MGO).
- Check the label for the MGO content: Methylglyoxal (MGO) is a naturally occurring compound found in Manuka honey that gives it its antibacterial properties. The higher the MGO content, the stronger the antibacterial properties of the honey. Look for a label that lists the MGO content of the honey.
- Buy from a reputable supplier: It’s important to buy Manuka honey from a reputable supplier who sources their honey from trusted beekeepers in New Zealand. Be wary of suppliers who offer Manuka honey at prices that are too good to be true, as they may be selling counterfeit or low-quality honey.
- Check for a batch number: Authentic Manuka honey should have a batch number on the label. This number allows you to trace the honey back to the beekeeper and ensures that the honey is genuine.
- Avoid honey that has been heated or pasteurized: Heating or pasteurizing Manuka honey can destroy its beneficial enzymes and reduce its antibacterial properties. Look for honey that has been cold-pressed or raw.
By following these tips, you can ensure that you are buying authentic Manuka honey that is of the highest quality and has the strongest antibacterial properties.