Top Rated Manuka Honey: A Guide to the Finest Varieties

Health Feb 12, 2025 26 Add to Reading List

Manuka honey has gained global recognition in recent years for its extraordinary health benefits, making it a must-have in many households. The unique properties of this honey, produced by bees that pollinate the Manuka bush in New Zealand, have made it a popular choice for natural remedies, skincare, and boosting overall health. But with so many options available, finding the top rated Manuka honey can be a daunting task for consumers. This guide will help you navigate through the different varieties, explaining the factors that contribute to its quality, and how to choose the best for your needs.

What Makes Manuka Honey Different?

Before diving into the best varieties, it's important to understand what sets Manuka honey apart from regular honey. While all honey is created by bees from nectar, Manuka honey is unique in that it contains higher levels of methylglyoxal (MGO), a compound that gives it its strong antibacterial properties. This compound is present in much higher concentrations in Manuka honey compared to other types of honey, which makes it particularly effective in supporting immune health, treating wounds, and improving digestive function.

The potency of Manuka honey is often graded based on its MGO content, which is one of the key indicators of its effectiveness. Another important grading system is the Unique Manuka Factor (UMF), which measures the antibacterial strength of the honey. The higher the MGO or UMF rating, the more potent the honey. These factors are critical when determining which products are considered top rated Manuka honey.

Understanding the Grading Systems

Manuka honey is graded using two primary systems: MGO and UMF. While both of these systems measure the potency of the honey, they do so in slightly different ways.

MGO (Methylglyoxal): This is the more straightforward system and measures the level of methylglyoxal in the honey. The MGO number indicates how much MGO is present in a kilogram of honey. For example, honey with an MGO rating of 100 is less potent than honey with an MGO rating of 500 or 1000. The higher the MGO rating, the stronger the antibacterial properties.
UMF (Unique Manuka Factor): The UMF rating is more comprehensive, as it takes into account the levels of three key compounds found in Manuka honey: methylglyoxal, dihydroxyacetone (DHA), and leptosperin. The UMF rating system uses a scale ranging from 5+ to 25+, with higher numbers indicating stronger antibacterial activity. Typically, a UMF rating of 10+ or higher is considered to be of therapeutic grade.

Both of these systems play a crucial role in determining which varieties of Manuka honey are considered top-rated. It’s important to keep in mind that not all Manuka honey products will display these ratings, so looking for reputable brands and third-party certification is key to ensuring you’re getting high-quality honey.

What to Look for in Top Rated Manuka Honey

When shopping for top rated Manuka honey, it’s essential to consider several factors that contribute to its quality. Here are some things to keep in mind when selecting the best Manuka honey for your needs:

1. UMF or MGO Certification

The first step in ensuring you’re purchasing high-quality Manuka honey is to look for UMF or MGO certification on the label. Certified Manuka honey will have these ratings displayed clearly, indicating its potency and effectiveness. Be cautious of honey that doesn’t have a certification, as it may not meet the high standards that Manuka honey is known for.

2. Origin and Sourcing

Manuka honey is exclusively produced in New Zealand, and its authenticity is tied directly to this region. When choosing Manuka honey, always ensure that the product is sourced from New Zealand and is labeled as genuine. Some honey products may claim to be Manuka honey but may be diluted with other types of honey, reducing their effectiveness.

3. MGO Content

If you’re looking for a more straightforward grading system, MGO ratings are a good indicator of the potency of the honey. The higher the MGO content, the more powerful the honey. For general use, honey with an MGO rating between 100 and 300 is sufficient, but for medicinal or therapeutic purposes, look for MGO ratings of 500 or higher.

4. Flavor and Texture

Manuka honey has a distinct, earthy flavor that sets it apart from other types of honey. The taste can vary slightly depending on the MGO content, with higher-rated honey often having a stronger, more robust flavor. Additionally, top-rated Manuka honey tends to have a smooth, creamy texture that is easy to spread and enjoy.

5. Third-Party Testing

Reputable Manuka honey brands will undergo third-party testing to verify the authenticity and potency of their product. Look for honey that has been tested by independent laboratories to ensure that it meets the standards of quality and purity that it claims.

The Best Top Rated Manuka Honey Brands

Now that you know what to look for in top-rated Manuka honey, here are some of the best brands that consistently deliver high-quality products:

1. Comvita

Comvita is one of the most well-known and trusted brands in the Manuka honey industry. They offer a range of MGO-graded honey, including options with MGO ratings ranging from 100 to 850. Their products are UMF-certified and undergo rigorous testing to ensure their authenticity and potency.

2. Manuka Health

Manuka Health is another leading brand that offers a wide variety of Manuka honey with different MGO and UMF ratings. They are known for their premium quality honey, which is sourced directly from New Zealand’s pristine environments. Their MGO 400+ and UMF 20+ honey varieties are particularly popular for their strong antibacterial properties.

3. Kiva

Kiva Manuka honey is a favorite for those seeking a more affordable option without compromising on quality. Their honey is UMF-certified, and they offer a variety of MGO ratings, including MGO 250+ and MGO 500+. Kiva’s honey is raw, unpasteurized, and sustainably sourced, making it an excellent choice for health-conscious consumers.

4. Wild Cape

Wild Cape is another top-rated Manuka honey brand that offers products with high MGO ratings. Their honey is raw, unpasteurized, and certified by the UMF Honey Association. Wild Cape's MGO 1000+ and UMF 20+ honey are ideal for those seeking a highly potent option.

How to Incorporate Manuka Honey into Your Routine

There are countless ways to enjoy the benefits of Manuka honey. Here are some of the most popular ways to incorporate it into your daily routine:

As a Natural Sweetener: Use Manuka honey as a natural alternative to sugar in your tea, coffee, or smoothies. It adds a distinct, rich flavor while providing health benefits.
On Toast or Oatmeal: Spread Manuka honey on toast or drizzle it over oatmeal for a nutrient-packed breakfast.
For Skincare: Manuka honey is known for its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, making it a great addition to skincare routines. Apply it as a face mask or use it to soothe minor cuts and wounds.
For Digestive Health: Manuka honey can support gut health by balancing bacteria in the digestive system. Take a spoonful daily to aid digestion and improve your overall well-being.

Conclusion

When selecting top rated Manuka honey, it’s important to consider factors such as grading systems, certifications, and the brand’s reputation. Manuka honey is a versatile and powerful product that offers numerous health benefits, but only when you choose a high-quality, authentic product. By understanding the grading systems, knowing what to look for, and purchasing from reputable brands, you can be confident that you’re getting the finest Manuka honey available.

Whether you’re using it to boost your immunity, improve your skin, or simply enjoy its unique flavor, top-rated Manuka honey can be a valuable addition to your health and wellness routine.