Manuka Origins

Manuka honey is a monofloral honey produced in New Zealand from the nectar of the Mānuka tree (Leptospermum scoparium). The short flowering season produces many small white or pink flowers in spring. The very short 6-week season sustains only a small supply of genuine Manuka Honey and so supply is always limited.

Not all Manuka Honey is the same

'Active' Manuka honey is unique for it's amazing health benefits. 'Active' Manuka Honey contains anti-bacterial compounds exclusive to 'Active' Manuka Honey, one of which is called Methylglyoxal. Only certain strains of the Manuka Tree found in only the most remote parts of New Zealand can be classified as 'Active' containing the critical health benefits. It is only through independent laboratory testing that the Activity level can be assured.

Testing and Certification 

There are two different Manuka Honey registered certification methodologies and quality systems that measure the level of the unique signature compounds: MGO™/MG™ (Methylglyoxal Manuka Honey System) and UMF™ (Unique Manuka Factor). Both test for the Non-Peroxide Activity or 'NPA'. NPA Ranges from Lower levels MGO 83 | UMF 5+ up to high levels MGO 829 | UMF 20+. The higher the certified NPA levels, the higher the quality and better health benefits.

Manuka Honey without these certified NPA levels are very low grade Manuka Honey and do not have the antibacterial health properties, however they retain the same look, smell and taste. Manuka honeys that carry only a ‘total activity’ or ‘peroxide activity’ rating do not have this special NPA property and should be considered low-grade honey.

Manuka MGO, UMF, NPA Rating Comparison

Below is a chart to help you compare the Manuka Honey ratings:

Counterfeit Manuka Honey

Due to the very limited supply of manuka honey, most Manuka Honey sold globally is fake, or other honey types falsely labelled as Manuka Honey. To ensure the Manuka Honey you source is genuine, follow the following guidelines:

1) Only Manuka Honey produced in New Zealand can be 'Active'

2) Only Manuka Honey supplied by a reputable New Zealand company, like Waimarie NZ Ltd, can sell a genuine manuka product.

3) Only independently tested and certified Manuka Honey with the MGO™ or UMF™ rating can be assured to have the active antibacterial compounds and thus are of high quality. The supplier will be able to produce the test results which can be verified by the lab.

If the Manuka Honey you are buying does not meet all 3 of these criteria then your honey is either low-grade (no health benefits), or not 100% pure Manuka honey at all.

Leaf®

Our house honey brand is recognized for it's quality and purity. Leaf 100% Manuka Honey is sold all over the world in North America, Europe and Asia. Use our brand and taker advantage of this and save time without the need to design a new brand or label.

Other Labels

We have access to a number of different honey brands and labels for you to use and to add your own logo. This ensures a fast turn around without having to design a whole new label to suit your needs.

Private Label

We can affix your own label to our honey products. With a supplied design and brand we can arrange for printing and incorporate your label in the bottling process to ensure your brand represents the purest honey in the market.