Manuka Honey
A dark-colored honey made from nectar collected by bees from the flowers of the manuka shrub (Leptospermum scoparium), native to New Zealand and Australia. It has a distinctive, intense, mineral-like sweetness.
What Is Manuka Honey?
Manuka honey is made from nectar collected by bees from the flowers of the manuka shrub (Leptospermum scoparium), which is native to New Zealand and Australia. The manuka flowering period is short and limited, so production is limited as well.
It is dark amber-brown in color, thicker and more jelly-like than other honeys, and has an intensely sweet flavor with distinct mineral and earthy notes. Its quality is generally labeled with a UMF (Unique Manuka Factor) or MGO rating.
Manuka Honey Nutrition Facts
Manuka honey provides approximately 310 kcal of energy per 100 g; it consists largely of natural sugars and is nutritionally similar to other types of honey. Values are approximate.
How Should Manuka Honey Be Consumed?
Manuka honey is consumed in moderate amounts like other honeys, as part of a balanced diet.
This is general information; manuka honey is a food and is not a medical treatment. The general warning that applies to honey also applies here: it should not be given to infants under 1 year old.
How to Choose Manuka Honey
Good manuka honey has a UMF or MGO rating on the label, genuine New Zealand origin, and an official approval or lot number. Avoid products labeled “manuka” that have no label or unclear origin.
- The label should show a UMF or MGO rating and a lot number.
- The stated origin should be New Zealand or Australia.
- It should have a thick, jelly-like consistency and a dark amber color.
How to Store Manuka Honey
Store manuka honey at room temperature in a sealed container in a cool, dark place; like other honey, it will keep for a long time when stored properly.
Using Manuka Honey in the Kitchen
Manuka honey is most often eaten directly by one spoonful, spread on bread or toast, or dissolved in warm water. Because it is an intense and expensive product, it is used less often in cooking than plain honey.
What Do UMF and MGO Ratings Mean?
Both are independent rating systems that indicate the concentration of characteristic compounds in manuka honey (especially methylglyoxal); the price generally increases as the rating rises.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why Is Manuka Honey So Expensive?
The short flowering period of the manuka shrub, its limited geographic range, and the cost of quality verification make it noticeably more expensive than other honeys.
Does Manuka Honey Taste Different from Other Honey?
Yes. It has distinct mineral and earthy notes and a more intense sweetness, giving it a “heavier” flavor profile than most floral honeys.
Is Manuka Honey Available in Türkiye?
It may be available in limited quantities from gourmet markets and online sellers of imported products.