Manuka Honey

Mānuka honey is more expensive due to several factors that affect its production. The Mānuka tree (Leptospermum scoparium) grows in limited regions, primarily in New Zealand, and has a short flowering period, which restricts the amount of nectar available for honey production each year. Additionally, the narrow distribution of the Mānuka tree makes it more challenging for bees to collect nectar, increasing the difficulty and cost of harvesting. The production process also involves strict quality control, selection, and laboratory testing to verify the honey’s authenticity and classification. The combination of limited supply, labor- intensive harvesting, and rigorous testing contributes to its higher price.

MGO is a naturally occurring compound in Mānuka honey that contributes to its distinct characteristics and natural antibacterial properties. The MGO concentration, often listed on the label, helps classify and assess the honey’s composition and quality.

Mānuka honey can be classified as either monofloral or multifloral, depending on the nectar sources collected by bees. Monofloral Mānuka honey is primarily derived from the Mānuka tree (Leptospermum scoparium) and typically contains higher concentrations of MGO, resulting in a stronger flavour. Multifloral Mānuka honey is made from nectar collected from a mix of flowers, including the Mānuka tree and other plant species, leading to a milder taste and lower MGO levels.

No, good quality Manuka honey is not pasteurized. We keep our Mānuka Honey raw and unheated, retaining its natural beneficial compounds. Pasteurization uses heat, which breaks down these heat-sensitive nutrients, lessening Mānuka Honey’s potency and unique properties.

Infants under one year old should not consume honey due to potential health risks. Additionally, individuals with allergies to bee products should avoid Mānuka honey. If you have dietary restrictions or are taking medications, consult a healthcare professional before adding Mānuka honey to your diet.

Mānuka honey, like all honey, contains natural sugars. Individuals who need to manage their blood sugar levels should consult a healthcare professional before consuming it to determine an appropriate amount based on their dietary needs.

Mānuka honey can be enjoyed daily as part of a balanced diet, but it should be consumed in moderation due to its natural sugar content. Incorporating it in appropriate amounts can complement your dietary choices. If you have specific health concerns or dietary restrictions, consult a healthcare professional.

Adding honey to warm tea will not immediately destroy its nutritional properties. However, prolonged exposure to high temperatures can affect natural components, such as MGO (Methylglyoxal). To preserve the honey’s beneficial properties, it is advised to avoid exposing Mānuka honey to very high temperatures.

Mānuka honey should be stored in a cool, dry place and away from direct sunlight or heat. There is no need to refrigerate it. Keeping it in a sealed container will help maintain its quality and prevent moisture absorption.

Mānuka honey may naturally harden or crystallize over time, but this does not mean it has expired. As long as it has been stored correctly, it is still safe to consume and can be kept for a long period. If desired, you can gently warm the honey to return it to its original consistency.

Mānuka honey is known for its natural anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which are attributed to its unique bioactive compounds, such as methylglyoxal (MGO). Some studies, such as the review article Therapeutic Potential of Bioactive Compounds in Honey for Treating Oste-oarthritis (Martinez-Armenta et al., 2021), suggest that honey, including Mānuka honey, may help support joint health by reducing inflammation and providing antioxidant benefits.
Additionally, the study Characterization of Immunomodulatory Responses Induced by Mānuka Honey (Masad et al., 2022) suggests that Mānuka honey may influence immune system re-sponses, contributing to overall inflammatory balance.

However, it is important to note that these studies have not been reviewed or approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration or Health Canada for the treatment or prevention of arthritis or related conditions. Mānuka honey is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

Mānuka honey may support digestive health by promoting a healthy gut balance. Studies, such as the one titled Effect of honey in improving the gut microbial balance, have shown that honey can promote probiotic growth while reducing the presence of pathogens, thus improving gut microbiome balance. The antimicrobial properties of Mānuka honey, especially its ability to combat gut pathogens like Escherichia coli and Salmonella, can contribute to digestive health by reducing harmful microbial growth. This study on Mānuka Honey’s Effects on Pathogens and Probiotics also highlights that Mānuka honey significantly inhibits the growth of harmful pathogens while promoting the growth of beneficial probiotics.

However, it is important to note that these studies have not been reviewed or approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration or Health Canada. Mānuka honey is not intended to diag-nose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

Using a mother-of-pearl spoon for Mānuka honey is recommended because it does not react with the honey’s natural properties, preserving its taste, texture, and quality. Unlike metal spoons, which can alter the honey’s composition, or plastic spoons, which may absorb odours, a mother-of-pearl spoon ensures the honey remains pure.

CAUTION:

• If you have a shellfish allergy, exercise caution, as the spoon is made from shell material.
• Handle the spoon gently as it is fragile and may develop sharp edges if broken.
• Avoid using the dishwasher, wash it gently by hand with mild soap and lukewarm water.
• The spoon is not recommended for use by young children due to its fragility.

Each box of Vitahouse™ Mānuka Honey MGO 970+ comes with a signature authenticity card, featuring a unique verification code. To ensure the product’s authenticity, gently scratch to reveal the code and visit vita103.com/verify. Each code is one-of-a-kind and can only be verified once. Upon successful verification, the code will be marked as used, confirming that your product meets Vitahouse’s uncompromising standards of quality and integrity.