How do I verify authentic Manuka honey?
Written by
Thomas Wilson
Reviewed by
Prof. William Dalton, Ph.D.To verify your authentic Manuka honey, you will need to assess several factors. There is a significant number of counterfeit products on the market. Hence, verifying authenticity is crucial to experience the therapeutic benefits. Follow these expert tips to ensure you receive quality honey with the correct bioactive compounds and healing benefits.
Certification Labels
- Check for UMF™ or MGO ratings on packaging
- Confirm license numbers match producer databases
- Look for holographic security features on labels
Digital Verification
- Scan QR codes for batch testing reports
- Match production dates across jar and certificate
- Verify laboratory accreditation details online
Origin Authentication
- Ensure New Zealand or Australian geographical naming
- Cross-check supplier details on UMFHA registry
- Validate AMHA certification for Australian products
Conduct sensorial evaluation within professional methods. Authentic Manuka should leave a thick coating on a spoon that does not dribble. The darkness in amber should appear as a transition from dark cream to brown, with no golden hues. The aroma should be earthy, rather than floral or sweet; the taste should be herbal, with a complex flavor profile.
Examine supplier credentials in detail. Prior legitimate manufacturers have physical and contact information. Review the sustainability reports and transparency disclosures of trade organizations. Do not use suppliers whose product photography or supplier registration does not correlate; I research all brands against industry registries.
Implement simple tests at home for further verification. One water test can demonstrate that classic honey dissolves evenly and shows no cloudiness (referring to ultra-filtered honey). Refrigeration should cause gradual crystallization, not separation. Antibacterial properties will stop mold from growing on plain organic bread left out at room temperature.
Carefully examine batch documentation. Testing dates should be scheduled for the production period. The methylglyoxal levels should match the label declaration. Seek third-party laboratory validation, not in-house. Missing or incomplete documentation indicates a potential risk of fraud.
Use the submission verification techniques I've established. Utilize black lights to view hidden security markings. Use a calibrated device to measure viscosity. Compare the sample to certified reference samples. All of these processes will identify advanced counterfeiting techniques that a normal visual inspection will miss.
Read the full article: 10 Proven Benefits of Manuka Honey
