What Range of Monofloral Manuka Honey To Use For Your Brand

Mānuka honey comes in a variety of different strengths. Each honey is unique and finds a different set of purposes based on the concentration of bioactive ingredients within. Depending on the product you wish to market, you should be aware of the different grades. 

This blog will outline the main differences between each grade and explore creating a bespoke range unique to your brand. We will also look into ways we can help you decide which range of honey is suitable for your brand. 

UMF™ 5+ to UMF™ 10+ Uses: 

An entry-level UMF™ certification is the UMF™ 5+, which typically requires an MGO of ≥83mg/kg. An excellent choice for a brand that wants to establish access to the product. This variation of Mānuka honey is also the perfect alternative to conventional sugar as it contains fewer calories per serving. 

Stronger than multifloral Mānuka honey, this range is a great option for those price-conscious consumers who still value the taste of Mānuka honey. If your product is edible, this honey variation may be an excellent addition to your list of ingredients. Delivering a beautiful velvet taste with every bite. 

Some examples include: 

• Entry-level jarred honey
• Desserts
• Candy 
• Cosmetics

UMF™ 12+ to UMF™ 20+ Uses: 

Create a brand of luxury with this honey that reveres potent concentrations of MGO. This mid-range of Mānuka honey will be appropriate for products that require topical applications. A UMF™ in this range has been reported to act as a helpful tool for cosmetic and skin care purposes. 

Numerous studies from dermatology researchers have indicated the benefits of Mānuka honey may soothe acne-prone skin. However, if you intend on using Mānuka honey in a product that will cause it to be diluted, it’s wiser to select a more concentrated variant. This way, you don’t compromise the potency of your product. 

Some examples include: 

• Mid-range jarred honey
• Face cream/moisturiser/balm
• Mānuka honey bandages 
• Facial masks

UMF™ 20+ to UMF™ 31+ Uses: 

The most premium and rare variation of Mānuka honey in the world. This honey is reserved for brands who wish to provide their customers with the very best. Pure Mānuka honey that has MGO levels as high as these UMF™ certifications will typically be used for eating straight or topical application. 

It’s recommended that a Mānuka honey brand consider UMF™ 20 or above if its goal is to promote natural health with 100% pure New Zealand Mānuka honey. 

Some examples include: 

• Premium raw honey (in a jar)
• Stronger topical product

How is Genuine Manuka Honey Graded? 

Monofloral Mānuka honey can be graded using several different methods. However, the gold standard of grading Mānuka honey is the Unique Mānuka Factor (UMF™). As established by the Unique Manuka Factor Honey Association, this method is world-renowned for ensuring the best of monofloral pure Mānuka honey. 

UMF™ relies on four different bioactive ingredients to grade the specific Mānuka honey product. These four ingredients are:

1. Leptosperin - a DNA market to indicate genuine Mānuka honey

2. Methylglyoxal (MGO) - the magic ingredient that may have antibacterial properties

3. Dihydroxyacetone (DHA) - the natural precursor to MGO and demonstrates genuineness 

4. Hydroxymethylfurfural (HMF) - an indicator of overheating of Mānuka honey

Each of these ingredients plays an integral role in determining the UMF™ number. The higher the concentration (especially MGO), the higher the value of UMF™. Choosing UMF™ certification which is internationally recognised can help build trust in your brand and adds a unique selling point

Midlands Apiaries Can Provide You With 100% Pure New Zealand Manuka Honey

Midlands Apiaries is the perfect partner for your brand, whether it’s honey in a jar, skincare, winter wellness or dressings. Our widespread Mānuka honey supply and production operations can accommodate your needs. Proudly supplying multifloral and UMF™-certified monofloral Mānuka honey, we can work with you to achieve your goals. 

We also offer the services of a highly knowledgeable marketing team. So if you’re looking to bring a fantastic brand to market, our team of professionals can plan a pathway to your launch. With an extensive network of honey supplies and laboratories - Midlands Apiaries can provide your business with everything it needs.

Additionally, as the largest New Zealand supplier of wholesale Mānuka honey globally, Midlands Apiaries knows a thing or two about quality. An accredited laboratory tests each batch of Mānuka honey from Midlands Apiaries for certification. We are very aware of the stringent requirements set forth by UMF™HA (Unique Manuka Factor Honey Association).

Get in touch with us today to know how Midlands Apiaries can make for a beneficial partner in your budding business.