Why Authenticity and Pricing Matter When Buying Manuka Honey

Manuka honey can vary widely in price, strength, and sourcing. So, what makes a jar authentic?

At first glance, many jars of Manuka honey look pretty similar. Golden honey, clean labels, a strength number, maybe a few words about New Zealand. Yet you might then notice the price tag.

On top of the above, one jar may cost much more than another. One brand might talk about MGO levels. Another brand may mention UMF. Some jars explain where the honey comes from, while others give you very little detail. It can all feel a little confusing—until you know what to look for.

In this guide, we break down what the numbers mean, why prices vary, and what to look for when shopping for Manuka honey. 

What MGO Numbers Actually Mean 

When you look at a jar of Manukora Manuka honey, you will notice a number like 600+, 850+, or 1000+. These numbers refer to the honey’s MGO (methylglyoxal) content, a naturally occurring compound found in Manuka honey that helps distinguish it from other types of honey. 

In simple terms, a higher MGO rating means a higher concentration of MGO. This measurement provides shoppers with a clear and reliable way to compare Manuka honey labels. While you may also see UMF ratings on some jars, many consumers look to MGO as an easy-to-understand indicator when evaluating the Manuka honey’s strength.

Here is a simple comparison of Manukora’s core MGO grades:

How They Affect Price

MGO strength is one of the main reasons Manuka honey prices vary. Higher MGO levels are usually less common and may depend on seasonal conditions, flowering periods, and careful harvesting. This is why MGO 600+, 850+, and 1000+ are priced differently.

Still, higher MGO is not automatically the best choice for everyone. The right jar depends on your taste, routine, and budget. The goal is not to chase the highest number, but to choose a clearly labeled jar that helps you understand what you’re paying for.

Why Does Manuka Honey Cost More? 

Much of the highest-quality Manuka honey comes from remote regions of New Zealand, including Northland, East Cape, Wanganui, and Taranaki. These areas provide the conditions needed for bees to collect nectar from native Manuka tea trees, helping produce honey with high purity and MGO levels. Higher MGO batches are harder to produce, so they naturally cost more.

There’s also the reality of sourcing and beekeeping. The Manuka tea tree bloom has a short window, and yields may vary substantially year to year. On top of that, brands invest in testing, traceability, and quality checks to make sure what’s on the label actually matches what’s in the jar.

These extra steps help ensure consistency and quality, but they also add to the cost. 

How to Spot Authentic Manuka Honey 

With popularity comes imitation, but spotting the real deal is easy when you know what to look for. 

Before buying, check for these signs: 

• Check the Label: Look for a clearly stated MGO rating, such as MGO 600+, 850+, or 1000+. This number indicates the honey's methylglyoxal content and provides a simple way to compare products.

• Look for Independent Testing: Authentic Manuka honey should be independently tested to verify its MGO content and confirm authenticity.

• Check the Source: Genuine Manuka honey comes from the nectar of the Manuka tree (Leptospermum scoparium), which is native to New Zealand.

Many trusted brands, like Manukora, also provide traceability information, allowing you to trace your jar right back to the remote forest where it was harvested.

Choosing the Right Manuka Honey for You 

The right Manuka honey is the one with clear labeling, traceable sourcing, and a strength level that fits your taste, routine, and budget. 

For first-time buyers, MGO 600+ is usually a solid starting point. It has a smooth, approachable taste while still giving you the distinct character Manuka honey is known for. It works well for everyday use without feeling too intense.

MGO 850+ sits a step higher, with a richer, more layered profile. It’s best for those who already know they enjoy Manuka honey and want something a little deeper in taste and strength. MGO 1000+ has a fuller flavor profile and is more premium, often chosen by those looking for a higher-strength option.

If you’d like to explore different strengths, a starter kit can be a simple way to compare grades side by side. The more familiar you become with the different grades, the easier it is to find a favorite. 

Ready to Find Your Favorite? 

By now, you've probably noticed that not all Manuka honey is the same. From MGO ratings and flavor profiles to rarity and authenticity, a few factors can make one jar very different from another.

Once you’ve found a favorite, a Manukora subscription makes it easy to keep it stocked in your pantry. No last-minute reordering, no running out halfway through the jar. Just your preferred Manuka honey delivered when you need it.

Sources

Manukora Mānuka Honey Review: We Tested the Blockchain-Traceable MGO 850+