{ "id": 2700, "date": "2026-10-09T00:55:50", "date_gmt": "2026-10-08T21:55:50", "guid": { "rendered": "https:\/\/manukabh.com\/?p=2700" }, "modified": "2026-10-18T01:43:20", "modified_gmt": "2026-10-17T22:43:20", "slug": "real-manuka-honey-guide", "status": "publish", "type": "post", "link": "https:\/\/manukabh.com\/en\/real-manuka-honey-guide\/", "title": { "rendered": "How to Tell Real Manuka Honey: 6 Signs, Plus How to Use and Store It" }, "content": { "rendered": "

Because Manuka honey is expensive and in demand, there are fake, blended or falsely labelled products out there. These are the key signs of real, pure Manuka honey<\/strong> to check before you buy, plus tips on using and storing it so you get the most from every spoonful.<\/p>\n

6 Signs of Real Manuka Honey<\/h2>\n

1. A clear number: MGO or UMF<\/h3>\n

The jar must show MGO<\/strong> with a number (like 263+) or UMF<\/strong> with a number (like 10+). Words like \u201cActive\u201d or \u201cBio Active\u201d without a number mean nothing. Learn the difference in our MGO and UMF guide<\/a>.<\/p>\n

2. Original Manuka honey is produced and packed in New Zealand<\/h3>\n

Original Manuka honey is produced and packed in New Zealand<\/strong>. Look for \u201cPacked in New Zealand\u201d or \u201cProduct of New Zealand\u201d on the label.<\/p>\n

3. A known brand and a batch number<\/h3>\n

Genuine jars show the producer's name, abatch number<\/strong>, and an expiry date. Some brands let you verify the batch on their website.<\/p>\n

4. A UMF licence<\/h3>\n

If the jar carries the UMF logo, it comes with the company's licence number<\/strong> from the UMF Honey Association (UMFHA) in New Zealand.<\/p>\n

5. A sensible price<\/h3>\n

If you find high-grade Manuka honey at a suspiciously low price, something is probably wrong. High grades are rare, and the price reflects that.<\/p>\n

6. Texture and taste<\/h3>\n

Manuka honey is thicker and denser<\/strong> than regular honey, with a dark golden-brown colour and a strong taste with a slight bitterness. It's also normal for it to crystallise a little over time.<\/p>\n

How to Use Real Manuka Honey<\/h2>\n