The Manuka DIFFERENCE
140 people, 1.5 billion bees and a commitment to using science to harness the power of nature
One of New Zealand’s largest honey companies, Manuka Health has retained its position as the Most Trusted Honey Brand in Australia for the second year running. Formed in 2006 by a Kiwi couple, the company carefully crafts and nurtures Manuka honey, Propolis, Royal Jelly and other natural health products to capture New Zealand’s living energy. We spoke to Manuka Health master beekeeper Dave Campbell about what sets them apart.
WHAT MAKES MANUKA HONEY SO SPECIAL?
The Manuka nectar makes it so different from other honeys. The Manuka tree only flowers for a few weeks a year – this is when it produces the special nectar collected by bees that is transformed into Manuka honey. It’s also the first honey to be so extensively researched and recognised by scientists and medical experts.
TELL US ABOUT MANUKA HONEY’S SECRET INGREDIENT.
Unlike regular honeys, Manuka contains a compound called methylglyoxal (MGO). Our research partner – Professor Thomas Henle from the University of Dresden – discovered MGO as the magic ingredient. His team’s groundbreaking research identified MGO as the lead marker for Manuka honey potency and grade.
ARE ALL MANUKA HONEYS THE SAME?
MGO levels can vary greatly from honey to honey. To be assured of potency, they must be tested and certified for natural MGO content. In 2008, we pioneered MGO testing as a more precise and reliable grading method. Every jar of Manuka Health MGO Manuka Honey is tested and certified.
HOW DO YOU TAKE CARE OF YOUR BEES?
We’re passionate about our hardworking bees and committed to making our high-grade range of New Zealand honeys sustainably. We work with landowners and beekeepers to make sure our bees are nourished, nurtured and protected. We are committed to hive health and nutrition, which means ensuring our bees are looked after all year round. We have robust wintering programs, and we don’t use antibiotics in our hives.
“Our bees are nourished, nurtured and protected”