Don't Bee Stung by "Mock Manuka"
Manuka honey has gained popularity for its unique properties and perceived health benefits. But recent research has revealed that a significant portion of the "Manuka" honey on sale in the UK is not authentic and lacks the essential ingredient that gives it its renowned properties. People are paying high prices for what is essentially "Mock Manuka". In response to this concerning trend, we’ve launched the "Campaign for Real Manuka" to raise awareness and guide you in making informed choices.
The rise of "Mock Manuka" and misleading labels
In the UK, we’re spending a staggering £19 million on Manuka honey each year, with prices ranging from £5 to £150 for a 250g jar. Unfortunately, many people are falling victim to the allure of "Mock Manuka" honey. They unknowingly pay as much as £20 for a jar that lacks sufficient MGO, therefore missing out on the real benefits of authentic Manuka.
Our research has unveiled the prevalence of substandard "Manuka" honey and the use of misleading product labelling from fake Manuka honey brands. Shockingly, over 50% of product labels examined were in breach of UK Honey Regulations or significantly misleading to consumers. It's crucial to be aware of this issue to make sure you're getting the genuine product you're paying for and not just regular honey with an incorrect label.
We have taken a stand against the rising tide of "Mock Manuka" and have launched the "Don't Bee Stung by Mock Manuka" campaign to educate and empower you to make better choices. We’re also in discussions with UK regulators to address the use of product labels that violate honey regulations.
How to identify authentic Manuka honey from New Zealand
To protect yourself from purchasing inferior products, it's important to understand what to look for when buying high quality Manuka. Follow these guidelines:
Look for MONOFLORAL Manuka: Authentic New Zealand Manuka honey should be clearly labelled as "MONOFLORAL". This indicates that it comes from bees that primarily feed on the nectar of the Manuka flower, ensuring higher concentrations of beneficial properties.
Check the MGO Rating: Genuine Manuka honey should have a methylglyoxal (MGO) rating of at least 80 and above. The MGO content guarantees the potency and unique qualities of Manuka honey. Be cautious of products with low MGO levels, as they are likely blends of Manuka with other varieties, i.e. multifloral Manuka.
Traceability: Manuka honey should always be traceable back to the beekeepers in New Zealand that manage the bees and harvest the honey. Make sure you have full visibility of who they are and where your Manuka honey is coming from.
Trust Authentic Manuka Honey Brands: Stick to well-known honey brands with a proven track record of providing authentic Manuka honey. Brands like ours have invested in research and quality control to ensure you receive genuine products. Remember: if it seems too good to be true, chances are, it probably is!
Is Rowse Manuka honey authentic?
Yes, Rowse Manuka honey is 100% pure and authentic. How can we be so sure?
Well, for a number of reasons:
- All of our Manuka honey is triple tested: at source before it’s packed in New Zealand, on arrival in the UK and again, before the jar is sealed
- Every jar of Rowse Manuka has over the minimum threshold of 80 MGO (specifically, we have three jars: 100 MGO, 250 MGO and 500 MGO)
- All our Manuka can be traced back to the beekeepers in New Zealand that harvested the honey. Meet them here
The increasing prevalence of "Mock Manuka" honey in the UK market poses a significant challenge to those looking to buy certified Manuka honey for the unique properties associated with authentic Manuka. Our campaign is looking to raise awareness and advocate for proper labelling practices. While we’re waiting for UK regulators to address the issues, make sure you follow the guidelines provided to avoid being stung by misleading products and can enjoy the real benefits of Manuka. Remember, when it comes to Manuka honey, it's all about getting the real deal.
