Transparency is 🗝

You've probably heard us talk about transparency before. In fact, it is one of the four core principles that have driven our brand for over 30 years. While you may appreciate our QR code and having access to test results and lab information, do you know why it's so important? Let's discuss it!

There is no reliable information on how much honey is falsely labeled as manuka each year; however, export figures indicate that it's quite a lot. The recent legal battle between New Zealand and Australia has further complicated the issue. Although Australia came out on top, many New Zealand brands still assert that the only real manuka comes from New Zealand.

In fact, it wasn't that long ago when we would have made the same assertion. However, in recent years and after extensive testing, it has become evident that many types of the manuka tree found in Australia also produce high MGO-content honey. That said, testing and regulations in Australia are not as advanced as those in New Zealand, making it easier for some brands to mislead consumers. Some brands export manuka from NZ in bulk containers and then mix it with other honey before jarring, as there are no regulations for manuka in other countries. Meanwhile, others jar in NZ but hide their MGO content to sell you low-strength manuka at a higher price.

So how do you know you are getting real manuka honey? There is really only one way: transparent test results. If you cannot view the test results of the honey you are purchasing, that is a red flag. You might ask: can't a company make up a test and link to the results? While that's a possibility, it's precisely why we include all the information on the approved lab conducting the tests.

For full instructions on how to read your test results click below.