The Problem of Manuka Honey Fraud
Manuka honey's global reputation for unique health-supporting properties, along with its limited harvest window and specific source (the Leptospermum scoparium plant native to New Zealand), has driven up its price and created a market ripe for exploitation. Fake Manuka honey, or honey adulterated with cheaper ingredients, is a widespread issue, with some reports suggesting that the amount of honey sold as 'Manuka' far exceeds the amount actually produced.
Fraudulent activities range from diluting genuine Manuka honey with sugar syrups or other cheaper honeys to mislabeling products with inaccurate or entirely false claims of potency. This not only defrauds consumers of their money but also undermines the trust in reputable brands and can mean purchasers miss out on the honey's distinct beneficial properties. New Zealand's Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI) and independent organizations like the UMF Honey Association have established stringent standards to combat this deception, giving consumers the tools they need to make an informed choice.
Deciphering Certifications: UMF vs. MGO
One of the most important steps in determining a product's authenticity is understanding the certification labels on the jar. The two most trusted systems are UMF and MGO, though they differ in their scope and assurance.
MGO (Methylglyoxal) Rating
MGO is a naturally occurring compound in Manuka honey that is largely responsible for its renowned antibacterial activity. The MGO rating on a jar simply indicates the concentration of methylglyoxal, measured in milligrams per kilogram (mg/kg). A higher MGO number suggests a more potent honey. While useful, MGO can be artificially added to honey to mislead consumers. Some brands may also market an MGO rating without undergoing full independent testing.
UMF (Unique Manuka Factor) Certification
The UMF grading system is considered the gold standard for authenticity and quality assurance. Managed by the Unique Manuka Factor Honey Association (UMFHA), this certification process involves a more comprehensive four-factor quality assessment. It tests for three key natural markers that confirm authenticity—Methylglyoxal (MGO), Dihydroxyacetone (DHA), and Leptosperin—as well as Hydroxymethylfurfural (HMF), which indicates freshness and that the honey has not been overheated. Unlike MGO, the UMF mark signifies independent verification of the honey's origin, quality, and purity, providing a much higher level of consumer confidence. It is a system that goes beyond just one chemical marker to ensure the full integrity of the product.
Spotting Genuine Manuka Honey: A Practical Checklist
When you're shopping, follow these steps to confidently select an authentic Manuka honey:
- Look for Official Certification: Prioritize products with a UMF™ certification logo and a clearly stated license number, which you can often verify on the UMFHA website (www.umf.org.nz). If only an MGO rating is listed, ensure it is from a reputable producer who provides independent lab testing results.
- Confirm Country of Origin: Genuine Manuka honey comes from New Zealand. Any product labeled with a different origin is not authentic Manuka honey. Check the fine print on the label for where the honey was harvested, packed, and labeled.
- Be Skeptical of Low Prices: Due to its rarity and strict production standards, authentic Manuka honey is relatively expensive. Suspiciously low prices for a high-grade honey are a major red flag for counterfeits or diluted products.
- Inspect the Packaging and Labeling: Authentic Manuka honey will be packed and labeled in New Zealand to comply with strict export standards. Be wary of vague terms like “Bio-Active,” “Total Activity,” or “Active Honey” without an accompanying UMF or MGO rating, as these are not regulated indicators of quality.
- Look for Traceability: Many reputable brands include a batch number on the jar that allows consumers to trace the honey back to its origin and view independent lab test results. This commitment to transparency is a strong sign of a genuine product.
- Trust Your Senses (with caution): Genuine Manuka honey typically has a darker, amber color and a thicker, creamy consistency than regular honey. While this can offer a clue, it is not a foolproof test, as counterfeiters can replicate these characteristics.
Fake vs. Real Manuka Honey: A Comparison Table
| Characteristic | Fake Manuka Honey | Real Manuka Honey |
|---|---|---|
| Certification | Often uses unregulated terms like "Active" or lists only an MGO rating without independent verification. | Features official UMF™ certification with a license number, or independently tested MGO ratings from a reputable brand. |
| Origin | Labels may be vague or list a country other than New Zealand. May be blended or packed offshore. | Clearly states it was harvested, packed, and labeled in New Zealand. |
| Price | Unusually low for its purported grade, often suggesting dilution with cheaper sugars or honeys. | Reflects its premium status due to rarity and strict production standards, costing significantly more than regular honey. |
| Traceability | Lacks batch numbers or transparent sourcing information. | Provides a batch number, often with a system to view independent lab test results. |
| Label Claims | Uses confusing or misleading terminology; spelling errors or poor-quality printing can be present. | Adheres to strict New Zealand MPI and UMFHA labeling standards, using clear, official grading terms. |
| Appearance | May be too runny, light in color, or have an artificially uniform appearance. | Thick and creamy with a darker, rich amber color. |
Conclusion
Given the high incidence of fraud in the market, consumers must be vigilant when purchasing Manuka honey. While the allure of a low price can be tempting, the risk of buying a counterfeit product that lacks the genuine honey's unique properties is significant. By prioritizing products with official UMF™ or verifiable MGO certifications, confirming New Zealand origin, and purchasing from reputable brands, you can navigate the market with confidence. These safeguards protect not only your wallet but also your health, ensuring you receive the authentic product and its full range of nutritional benefits. For further verification, you can always check the UMF Honey Association's official website.
