Mānuka honey is a premium natural product, renowned for its unique antibacterial properties, rich flavour, and health benefits. Given its specialised production, strict quality grading, and limited availability, its price can vary significantly. This article explores the factors affecting the cost of Mānuka honey, typical price ranges in the UK, and what to consider when purchasing.
Factors That Affect the Price of Mānuka Honey
Several factors influence the cost of Mānuka honey, making it one of the more expensive honey varieties on the market.
1. MGO Ratings
Mānuka honey is graded based on its Methylglyoxal (MGO) content. These ratings indicate the honey's potency and purity:
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Lower-grade (MGO 40+ to 100+): More affordable, suitable for general consumption.
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Mid-range (MGO 300+ to 525+): Offers stronger antibacterial properties, often used for wellness.
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High-grade (MGO 850+ and above): Considered premium and used for specific therapeutic benefits, making it the most expensive.
2. Authenticity and Certification
Genuine Mānuka honey undergoes rigorous testing to ensure authenticity. Certified products from reputable brands, such as Manuka Lab, guarantee purity and quality, which adds to the cost.
3. Harvesting Challenges
Mānuka honey is sourced from the nectar of the Mānuka tree (Leptospermum scoparium), native to New Zealand. The tree flowers for only a few weeks each year, making the harvest highly dependent on seasonal conditions. Limited production and high demand drive up prices.
4. Processing and Packaging
Raw, unprocessed Mānuka honey with minimal filtration retains its beneficial properties but requires careful handling, increasing production costs. Additionally, high-quality packaging that preserves potency and meets food safety standards contributes to pricing.
5. Sourcing and Import Costs
Mānuka honey must be imported from New Zealand, with shipping, customs duties, and distributor margins all playing a role in the final retail price in the UK.
Typical Price Ranges of Mānuka Honey in the UK
The cost of Mānuka honey in the UK varies depending on its MGO rating, brand, and jar size. Below are general price ranges:
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MGO 40+: £9.99 - £17.99 per 250g - 500g
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MGO 100+: £12.99 - £19.99 per 250g - 500g
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MGO 300+: £19.99 - £29.99 per 250g - 500g
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MGO 525+: £24.99 - £39.99 per 250g - 500g
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MGO 850+: £65.00 per 250g
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MGO 1125+: £150.00 per 250g
For larger jars, prices scale accordingly, but bulk buying may offer better value per gram.
How to Choose the Right Mānuka Honey for Your Needs
When purchasing Mānuka honey, consider the following:
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Purpose of Use: For daily consumption, a lower MGO rating is sufficient. For medicinal or skincare applications, opt for higher grades.
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Certification: Look for official MGO certifications to ensure authenticity.
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Brand Reputation: Established brands, such as Manuka Lab, provide tested and verified products.
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Price vs. Value: While higher MGO ratings are more expensive, they offer stronger antibacterial properties.
Is Expensive Mānuka Honey Worth It?
The cost of Mānuka honey reflects its rarity, health benefits, and stringent quality controls. While it is more expensive than regular honey, its antibacterial and wellness properties make it a worthwhile investment for many consumers. Ensuring you buy from a reputable source is key to getting the best value for your money.
Conclusion
Mānuka honey prices in the UK vary based on MGO ratings, authenticity, and sourcing challenges. Understanding these factors helps buyers make informed decisions, ensuring they choose the right product for their needs. Whether used for daily health benefits or specific therapeutic purposes, Mānuka honey remains a sought-after natural remedy with proven benefits.
Manuka Lab supplies the highest quality MGO Mānuka honey, sourced directly from New Zealand. Every jar is carefully tested and certified to guarantee authenticity, purity, and potency, making it a trusted choice in the UK.
