Fera honey analysis experts make use of extensive analyses to determine the authenticity of Manuka honey. We determine a range of chemical compounds which are recognised markers of Manuka honey. 

Fera offers testing services to confirm the authenticity of honeys labelled as Manuka, and all analyses are fully validated, accredited (ISO17025) and performed to current industry standards. Fera are a key research partner of the UMF® Honey Association and an official testing laboratory for independently verifying the UMF® rating of Manuka honey.

Methylglyoxal (MGO) is a naturally occurring chemical present in New Zealand Manuka honey. The concentration of MGO is correlated to non-peroxide activity (NPA), which is a unique characteristic associated with Manuka honey. If requested, we can use a conversion equation to report the NPA level of your sample alongside the measured MGO concentration.

Dihydroxyacetone (DHA) is also present in New Zealand Manuka honey and detected in the nectar of Manuka flowers. Since DHA converts to MGO during the honey production process, the New Zealand Ministry for Primary Industries guidelines for Manuka honey state that both DHA and MGO should be present in products characterised as New Zealand Manuka-type honey.

Hydroxymethylfurfural (HMF) levels are often used as a honey quality indicator as HMF concentrations increase under excessive heat and prolonged storage times. HMF is particularly relevant to Manuka honey as heat can be used to accelerate the conversion of DHA to MGO fraudulently, thus altering the chemical profile to make it appear to be a more valuable product. According to Codex standards for honey, the HMF content, after processing, should not be more than 40 mg/kg or 80 mg/kg in regions with tropical ambient temperatures.

Leptosperin is an emerging chemical marker to support verification of Manuka honey authenticity. Fera offer this novel analysis method as part of the quadruple analyte test but also as an individual analysis for authenticity. More can be found about Leptosperin in our Leptosperin Manuka specific marker test. Fera is the only laboratory in UK to be a preferred partner by the UMF® Honey Association.

Because of Manuka honey's unique antimicrobial property, there is great consumer demand for it and it can command higher retail prices than other types of honey. With such high stakes, it is essential that consumer confidence in the integrity of the industry is maintained.

Fera offers a range of chemical and microbiological analysis services to the honey industry to support the marketing of legitimate labelling claims and help protect the consumer from food threats or fraud. The “Quad Package” includes the new Leptosperin Manuka specific marker test to confirm the authenticity of honey labelled as 'Manuka'.

This test is also available as a triple package, without Leptosperin, for £165.00 per sample upon request.