What makes Manuka honey different from regular honey?
Written by
Thomas Wilson
Reviewed by
Prof. William Dalton, Ph.D.Unique characteristics distinguish Manuka honey from ordinary honey, endowing it with remarkable therapeutic value. Its unique nectar is solely from New Zealand and Australian Leptospermum bushes rather than from a variety of plants like ordinary honey. The restricted supply gives Manuka its uniquely different properties that regular honey does not provide.
Nectar Source
- Exclusively from Leptospermum scoparium flowers
- Regular honey uses multiple floral sources
- Limited annual bloom period (2-6 weeks)
Bioactive Compounds
- High methylglyoxal (MGO) concentrations
- Contains unique leptosperin marker
- DHA converts to MGO over time
Certification Standards
- Requires UMF™ or MGO laboratory verification
- Regular honey has no therapeutic grading
- Batch testing confirms authenticity
Notice the increments in texture straight away! Real Manuka honey has a thick, creamy mouthfeel and coats your spoon without dripping. Its rich, dark amber color is distinctively different from the golden tones of regular honey. The earthy scent does not have an overly sweet smell, which indicates higher levels of bioactive compounds.
Discover the scientific basis for Manuka's advantage. Methylglyoxal levels can be as high as 100-1000+ mg/kg, as compared to 0-10 mg/kg in typical honey. This chemical imparts Manuka non-peroxide antibacterial properties that endure after digestion and heat exposure, unlike typical honey's delicate enzymes.
There are certification systems that guarantee authenticity. The UMF™ certification verifies four different chemical markers, while the MGO certification measures the methylglyoxal content. Honey that is not certified does not require verification, so therapeutic claims lack any guarantees. Always request certified batches of honey with scannable QR codes.
Identify sensory markers that identify Manuka honey -- rather than simple sweetness, taste will reflect complicated earthy notes meshed with subtle bitterness. The lasting sensation of warmth in the throat demonstrates active properties not present in other honey types and Manuka honey's subsequent source material. React with your senses as you assess quality.
Enjoy the geographical exclusivity that safeguards the integrity of Manuka. Only products that originate from remote areas of New Zealand and the coastal regions of Australia are guaranteed to be authentic. This controlled origin eliminates the adulteration commonly found in honey worldwide, delivering authentic therapeutic properties to you.
Read the full article: 10 Proven Benefits of Manuka Honey
