Where to Purchase Manuka Honey: A Guide to Finding the Best Quality and Deals

Manuka honey is often referred to as one of the most powerful and beneficial types of honey available today. Sourced from the nectar of the Manuka tree, native to New Zealand and parts of Australia, this honey has gained worldwide recognition for its unique antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and healing properties. It’s a powerhouse in both the culinary and health world, used in everything from skincare products to home remedies for sore throats and digestive issues.

What Makes Manuka Honey Unique?

Before diving into where to purchase Manuka honey, it’s important to understand what sets it apart from regular honey. Manuka honey has a higher concentration of methylglyoxal (MGO), a compound responsible for its strong antibacterial properties. This makes it far more potent and beneficial compared to standard honey varieties. Additionally, Manuka honey often contains a Unique Manuka Factor (UMF), a grading system used to measure its purity and antibacterial strength.

When looking for Manuka honey, you should always check for the UMF or MGO rating to ensure the honey you’re buying is genuine and meets high-quality standards.

The Convenience of Shopping from Home

The rise of e-commerce has made buying Manuka honey more convenient than ever. Many reputable online retailers offer a wide selection of brands, types, and grades of Manuka honey. Here are a few top online sources for purchasing Manuka honey:

Amazon: A One-Stop-Shop for Manuka Honey

Amazon is a global leader in e-commerce, and it has a vast collection of Manuka honey brands and varieties. From well-known brands like Comvita to lesser-known options, Amazon provides an easy way to compare different sellers, read customer reviews, and find the best prices. It also offers various shipping options, which makes it a great choice if you want to purchase Manuka honey from the comfort of your own home.

When using Amazon, make sure to check the UMF or MGO rating and verify the authenticity of the product. Some third-party sellers may offer fake or diluted versions of Manuka honey, so always read the reviews and do your research.

iHerb: Trusted Natural Health Products

iHerb is another excellent online retailer that specializes in natural health products, including Manuka honey. The website has a range of Manuka honey brands that feature varying UMF ratings and MGO levels. Many customers prefer iHerb due to its wide range of organic, non-GMO, and sustainably sourced products. Plus, iHerb often offers discounts and special deals, which can help you save money when purchasing Manuka honey.

Like with any purchase, ensure you are selecting a high-quality, certified product by checking the label for the correct UMF or MGO rating.

Access to Quality Products

If you prefer to shop in person and see the product before purchasing, specialty health stores are a great option for purchasing Manuka honey. Stores that focus on organic and health-conscious products tend to carry high-quality Manuka honey. Look for well-known brands and those with a reputable certification.

Premium Health Products

Whole Foods Market is a top destination for organic and natural products, including Manuka honey. The store carries premium brands that are sourced from New Zealand and come with the necessary certifications. Whole Foods offers a variety of options in different price ranges, so you can find the Manuka honey that fits your needs and budget. The staff is knowledgeable and can assist with questions regarding the different grades of honey available.

Whole Foods also often stocks honey that is certified organic and sustainably harvested, which adds an extra layer of confidence when purchasing.

Affordable and High-Quality

Sprouts Farmers Market is another great place to purchase Manuka honey. Known for its focus on fresh and organic products, Sprouts offers a selection of Manuka honey brands that are both affordable and high-quality. You can typically find smaller jars or larger containers to suit your needs. The best part is that many of the options are readily available in the store, so you can shop at your convenience.

If you’re unsure of which Manuka honey to choose, Sprouts employees can help guide you to the best options based on your preferences, whether you’re looking for high MGO content or a specific UMF grade.

Supporting Local Producers

Another great way to find high-quality Manuka honey is by visiting local organic markets or farmer’s markets. These markets often feature small, independent producers who source their honey from New Zealand or Australia. While this might not always be the most consistent or easily accessible option, it’s worth considering if you prefer to support small businesses and get more personalized service.

Many local vendors will offer different grades of Manuka honey, and they often provide information about the sourcing process, allowing you to make an informed purchase. Just ensure that the product is properly labeled with the UMF or MGO certification to verify its authenticity.

Direct from the Source: Buying From New Zealand and Australian Suppliers

For those looking to experience the best of Manuka honey, purchasing directly from a New Zealand or Australian supplier can be an excellent option. Many brands offer online ordering from their websites, and some even provide international shipping, so you can buy authentic Manuka honey straight from the source.

• A Trusted Brand

Comvita is one of the most well-known Manuka honey brands in the world, and buying directly from their website is a great way to ensure you’re purchasing the highest-quality product. The company has been producing Manuka honey since 1974 and is known for its rigorous testing and quality control standards. On their website, you can find a range of UMF and MGO-rated honeys, along with detailed information on each product's origin and benefits.

• Premium Quality and Ethical Sourcing

Another reputable New Zealand brand is Manuka Health. The company has a strong focus on sustainable farming practices and quality control, and they offer a variety of Manuka honey products. Manuka Health honey is available through their official website and from select online retailers, and it’s often labeled with both the UMF and MGO ratings to ensure authenticity.

• Convenient Yet Reliable Options

While drugstores and pharmacies may not offer the same variety as health stores, they can still be a convenient option for purchasing Manuka honey. Chains like CVS, Walgreens, and Boots (in the UK) may carry a limited selection of well-known Manuka honey brands. This can be a great choice for those who need to pick up a jar of honey quickly.

However, it’s essential to check the labels for the UMF or MGO ratings, as some of the products might not offer the same level of potency as those found in specialty health stores or directly from New Zealand-based suppliers.

Conclusion: 

When it comes to purchasing Manuka honey, your options are vast. Whether you prefer shopping online, in health stores, or supporting small local vendors, you have plenty of choices to find the best-quality Manuka honey. Just be sure to always check for the UMF or MGO certification, as these labels guarantee that the honey is genuine and possesses the antibacterial and therapeutic properties that make Manuka honey so unique. So, the next time you’re wondering, “Where to purchase Manuka honey?” rest assured that whether you’re shopping online, in-store, or even directly from New Zealand, you have access to an array of reputable sources for this natural powerhouse.

By understanding what to look for and where to purchase Manuka honey, you’ll be able to enjoy all its health benefits while ensuring you’re getting the best product for your needs.