There are several things to consider when you weigh up where to buy manuka honey. Environmental practices, delivery time and expenses are all important, no doubt. The Manuka grading system is arguably the essential factor to take under advisement, though.
Grading Manuka honey is not just a sales tactic. It's an art that ensures you will be paying for the highest possible quality of the product. The Manuka grading system is the brainchild of New Zealand's UMF Honey Association. UMF stands for Unique Manuka Factor, with "unique" the most critical element of this equation.
Disingenuous sellers can peddle honey that they claim is genuine Manuka. Alas, it's nothing of the sort. Instead, this honey has been engineered in a lab to look, smell and taste just Manuka – and thus attract a similar price tag. Such falsified honey offers none of the health benefits associated with genuine Manuka.
As a result, it's imperative to understand the Manuka grading system. Review the label on the jar of your honey. If you have purchased a genuine product, it will boast a UMF score. When pondering where to buy manuka honey, your priority should be to pick a seller that offers such packaging.
Now, the question arises – what does a UMF score entail? Vigorous tests will confirm the presence of the following:
· Leptosperin
· Methylglyoxal
· Dihydroxyacetone
· Hydroxymethylfurfural
If the Manuka honey passes these examinations, you can be sure that it is authentic and has undergone no laboratory-based tampering. Based on the results, the honey will also be assigned a score. The Manuka grading system typically follows this trajectory:
· UMF between 5+ and 9+ = authentic, everyday Manuka honey
· UMF between 10+ and 15+ = premium-grade Manuka honey, packed with even more goodness
· UMF between 15+ and 20+ = ultra premium-grade Manuka honey. Healthcare professionals are likeliest to use this grade of honey
· UMF of 24+ or higher = tough to find, this is the highest grade of Manuka honey possible
You now understand the Manuka grading system and why it is so important. Remember, if you're wondering where to buy manuka honey, always seek a seller that offers UMF-graded products. The seller should hold a certification to prove this. Anything else is a substandard offering at a premium price.