Nature's News
A Connoisseur's Guide to Mānuka Honey
In a world that’s increasingly driven by a desire for products that transcend the ordinary, true luxury can be found in the purity, rarity and sophistication of New Zealand Mānuka Honey. As a natural product that acts not only as a sweetener, but a liquid gold that’s revered by health and wellness enthusiasts across the world. While its popularity has soared in recent decades, the journey to truly appreciating this gift of nature goes beyond the surface-level appeal of it being a honey product native to New Zealand. Rather, premium Mānuka honey that’s produced by Primal by Nature is more than a pantry staple; it’s an experience, a wellness investment and a testament to the unparalleled beauty of New Zealand’s natural landscape. In this article, we’ll break down the components of Mānuka honey that make it such an appealing product to markets around the world. We will uncover its unique composition, the reasons behind its esteemed status and the art of incorporating this precious, 100% authentic New Zealand honey into a life well-lived. The Allure of Authenticity To truly appreciate luxury Mānuka honey products, one must first understand its origins and the unique factors that set it apart from conventional versions of honey. Native to the pristine and remote landscapes of New Zealand, Mānuka honey is produced by bees that forage exclusively on the nectar of the Mānuka tree. This tree, with its hardy resilience and delicate white blossoms, thrive in conditions that are typically hard for man to reach - far from pollution and agricultural contaminants. This geographical exclusivity is the first pillar of its luxury status - a product born from a specific, limited environment that the Primal by Nature beekeepers can only reach through unconventional means, such as by helicopter. Beyond its pristine provenance, the true splendour of premium Mānuka honey lies in its remarkable biochemical profile. While all honey possesses some antimicrobial properties, thanks to hydrogen peroxide, New Zealand Mānuka honey contains an additional, stable compound known as Methylglyoxal (MGO). This compound is not found in significant amounts in other honeys, and is directly responsible for Mānuka’s versatility. The higher the MGO concentration, the more impact the honey’s unique properties have on the individual who consumes it. Scientific studies have since revealed a suggested link between Mānuka honey and the antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties of MGO, making it a sought-after aid for wellness support. These studies include the work of Molan (2009) - demonstrating its potential for both health and skincare applications. Meanwhile, Atrott and Henle (2009) found a direct correlation between MGO content and antibacterial effectiveness, reinforcing the value of high-grade Mānuka honey for therapeutic applications. The UMF, or Unique Mānuka Factor grading system further elevates the prestige of Mānuka honey. Developed by the UMF Honey Association in New Zealand, this system is a rigorous certification that verifies the authenticity, origin and potency of New Zealand Mānuka honey. A UMF rating assures consumers of the presence of not only MGO, but also Leptosperin - a unique marker of the floral source, as well as DHA - which converts to MGO over time. For the connoisseur, the UMF trademark is akin to a vintage win’s appellation, or a diamond’s GIA certification. It’s a guarantee of the uncompromised quality of the product, which acts as an assurance you’re investing in a product of genuine luxury and efficacy. Primal by Nature is proud to bear the UMF mark on every product, underscoring our commitment to delivering only the finest, 100% authentic New Zealand Mānuka honey to your table; beautifully presenting Mānuka honey in a glass jar. The Remarkable Contents of Mānuka Honey By delving deeper into the chemical symphony at work within premium Mānuka honey, we discover why it commands such respect as a product. While MGO is indeed the star, it operates within a complex matrix of beneficial compounds that contribute to its holistic effects and luxurious profile. Methylgloxal (MGO) - As mentioned, MGO is the primary and active compound responsible for Mānuka honey’s unique antibacterial and antimicrobial properties. Its concentration directly correlates with the honey’s UMF and MGO ratings - the higher the MGO, the more impactful the honey, making it more desirable for targeted wellness applications. Leptosperin - This naturally occurring chemical compound is found exclusively in the nectar of the Mānuka flower. Its presence is a key indicator of 100% authentic New Zealand honey and is one of the crucial components measured in the UMF grading system. It acts as a fingerprint, confirming the honey’s botanical origin and ensuring that you’re purchasing the genuine article. Dihydroxyacetone (DHA) - This compound is found in the nectar of the Mānuka flower, and slowly converts into MGO during the honey’s maturation process. This conversion will contribute to the honey’s increasing potency over time, within its natural shelf life. Flavonoids and Phenolic Acids - Like many plant-derived foods, premium Mānuka honey is rich in various flavonoids and phenolic acids. These powerful antioxidants play a crucial role in combating oxidative stress within the body, contributing to overall wellbeing and cellular health. For the health conscious connoisseur, the synergistic benefits of these compounds, alongside MGO, make luxury Mānuka honey a holistic superfood. Vitamins and Minerals - While present in smaller quantities, Mānuka honey does also contain a spectrum of essential vitamins, such as vitamin B, and minerals - including calcium, potassium, magnesium and zinc. These micronutrients contribute to the honey’s overall nutritional value. Prebiotics - New Zealand Mānuka honey contains oligosaccharides, which act as a prebiotic. These compounds will help to nourish beneficial gut bacteria, contributing to a healthy and well-functioning body. A balanced gut is increasingly recognised as fundamental to overall health, and Mānuka honey’s contribution to this vital system adds another layer to its comprehensive benefits. The synergy of these components creates a product far more complex than your everyday honey products, they elevate a native New Zealand product to an esteemed position, making it truly unique and luxurious in both form and function. The Art of Application For the true connoisseur, owning a jar of Primal by Nature luxury Mānuka honey is just the beginning. The real pleasure lies in understanding how to best unlock its potential, whether for wellness, culinary delight or enhancing everyday self-care. UMF 10+ to 15+: Your Everyday Wellness & Skincare Companion These mid-grade UMF products, including the UMF 10+ and UMF 15+ offer great versatility, making them ideal for enhancing your daily well-being and skincare routine. If you're seeking an accessible Mānuka Honey grade to support your immune system and address minor topical needs, 10+ and 15+ options are an excellent fit. Studies suggest that these grades offer robust support for your immune system, making them a wise daily addition. They're also wonderfully effective for minor skin concerns like cuts and scrapes when applied directly, leveraging the honey's natural soothing properties. The bioactive compounds in these grades make them a cherished ingredient in premium skincare formulations, helping to nourish and protect your skin. Think of these grades as your versatile golden treasure for: Elevating your morning ritual: Stir a spoonful into your tea, yogurt, or smoothie for a delicious health boost. Soothe and protect: A natural go-to for soothing a ticklish throat or comforting minor skin irritations. Natural radiance: Incorporate into DIY face masks or use as a luxurious spot treatment for skin clarity and hydration. Gourmet kitchen adventures: A sophisticated sweetener for dressings, glazes, or simply drizzled over fresh fruit. UMF 20+ to 25+: High-Grade Health & Specialised Care For those moments that require a more impactful touch, the UMF 20+ and UMF 25+ grades deliver heightened wellness impact. These are specifically sought after for their concentrated bioactive compounds, offering a more intensive level of support. If you're looking for a Mānuka Honey product that brings more significant impact for health support – perhaps to combat a persistent cold or soothe a very sore throat – you'll find the UMF 20+ and 25+ grades to be particularly effective. Research consistently shows a direct link between higher MGO content and enhanced beneficial activity, reinforcing the value of these high-grade honeys for targeted wellness. They're excellent for intense immune support and can be a potent addition to your specialized skincare regimen. These grades are perfectly suited for: Intensive immune support: When you need an extra layer of defense, especially during seasonal challenges. Soothing relief: Providing a powerful calming effect for persistent sore throats and coughs. Advanced skincare: Ideal for targeted solutions, like intensive repair creams or serums for specific skin concerns. Thoughtful gifting: A truly impressive and beneficial gift for a loved one who appreciates premium wellness. UMF 31+ & Beyond: The Pinnacle of Purity & Luxury When exclusivity and unmatched purity are your priorities, the ultra-premium, luxury UMF 31+ grades represent the pinnacle of Mānuka honey's capabilities. These are more than just honey; they are a symbol of luxury and rarity, crafted to captivate those who demand the very best. These ultra-rare grades are the most powerful on offer, available only in small, exclusive batches. They are truly for the connoisseur who understands the value of unparalleled quality and exceptional efficacy. Brands like our Puriti Mānuka UMF™ 31+ and Primal By Nature Mānuka Honey UMF™ 32+ exemplify this supreme level of luxury. Mānuka Honey: A Sophisticated Product of Nature As we've explored, the golden treasure of luxury Mānuka Honey isn't just any honey; it's a symphony of unique compounds like MGO, Leptosperin, and DHA, meticulously nurtured by nature and upheld by rigorous UMF standards. Every Mānuka Honey in a glass jar embodies 100% authentic New Zealand honey, a testament to its unparalleled quality and the dedicated craftsmanship behind it. Whether you’re looking for the everyday wellness of UMF 10+, the targeted support of UMF 20+ or the pinnacle of luxury with UMF 31+, you're investing in a premium product that enriches your life, from boosting your well-being to elevating your culinary and skincare rituals. Choose your grade and truly experience the golden standard.
Learn more
The Art of Giving - Mānuka Honey as a Luxury Present
In a world that’s saturated with fleeting trends and mass possessions, the act of gifting a present has quickly transcended a simple obligation. Gifting things to others has become an expression of sentiment - it’s a tangible representation of care and a deliberate offering of something meaningful. The selection of a present, therefore, is an art form in itself - demanding a level of consideration, discernment and understanding what the recipient values. In this pursuit for the perfect present, Primal by Nature emerges as a uniquely thoughtful and undeniably luxurious choice for a present. Rooted in the pristine landscapes of New Zealand and providing the remarkable properties of a quality Mānuka honey product, a Mānuka honey gift from Primal by Nature speaks volumes - conveying not just opulence but a profound appreciation for wellbeing, natural excellence and the finer things in life. Today, we delve into the multifaceted reasons why Primal by Nature elevates the act of giving luxury Mānuka honey, transforming it into an experience of genuine connection and refined indulgence. The Language of Luxury Luxury, in its truest sense, is more than just big price tags and grand displays. It resides in the careful attention to detail, the unwavering commitment to quality and the inherent value that transcends the material worth. Primal by Nature represents refined luxury in a jar - making it an exceptional luxury present. Each jar of Mānuka honey is a testament to the natural environment from which it comes. It reflects on the careful stewardship of our beekeepers who nurture the hives, and the rigorous testing that ensures its authenticity. The elegant glass packaging, understated yet sophisticated, further enhances the sense of exclusively and care. To gift Primal by Nature is to offer a tangible piece of New Zealand’s natural heritage, a product that’s crafted with passion and precision. Unlike mass-produced items that lack individuality and soul, Primal by Nature carries a narrative. It whispers of sun-drenched Mānuka blossoms, the diligent hum of bees in untouched landscapes and a dedication to preserving the integrity of this amazing natural resource. This story adds a layer of depth and meaning to the gift, transforming it from a simple object into a cherished token of thoughtfulness when giving luxury Mānuka honey. The Gift of Wellbeing In an era where health and wellbeing have rightly taken centre stage, a gift that contributes to the recipient’s wellbeing holds immeasurable value. Primal by Nature’s luxury Mānuka honey is more than a gourmet treat. It’s a natural powerhouse that is brimming with unique properties that have been celebrate for centuries. The presence of MGO, a naturally occurring compound, is meticulously measured and guaranteed by the UMF grading system. This ensures the authenticity of the honey, making it a beneficial luxury present. Giving luxury Mānuka honey is therefore an offering of natural support for vitality. Atrott and Henle (2009) found a direct correlation between MGO content and antibacterial effectiveness, reinforcing the value of high-grade Mānuka honey for therapeutic applications. With MGO levels exceeding 826+, these grades are associated with higher concentrations of bioactive compounds, which have been studied for their antibacterial activities. This has them sought after for soothing sore throats, combating colds, and enhancing therapeutic products. In fact, there’s now a rising demand for therapeutic-grade Mānuka honey in the health and wellbeing industry - which makes these grades ideal for businesses seeking to offer premium solutions. Whether enjoyed by the spoonful for its soothing qualities, incorporated into a nourishing beverage or used as a natural boost, it provides a touch of nature’s goodness to the recipient’s daily routine. This thoughtful consideration for their health and wellbeing elevates the Mānuka honey gift beyond a fleeting pleasure. Instead, gifting it becomes an act of demonstrating care and concern for one’s personal wellbeing. In a world dominated by artificial solutions, the gift of Primal by Nature stands as a testament to the power and purity of the natural world. An Ethical Gift Choice In an increasingly sustainability-conscious world, the ethical considerations behind a gift hold more significant weight. Primal by Nature is committed to sustainable practices that respect the delicate balance of the natural environment and the wellbeing of the bee colonies. By choosing Primal by Nature as a luxury present, you’re not only offering a luxurious product but also supporting a brand that prioritises environmental responsibility and ethical sourcing. This commitment to sustainability adds another layer of thoughtfulness to the gift. As an example, beekeeping at Primal by Nature is a partnership with nature. Our beekeepers understand that bees have thrived for millennia, so we prioritize a non-invasive approach, avoiding any micromanagement and minimizing stress during hive maintenance and honey harvesting. Leaving bees undisturbed often helps them overcome challenges, so we respect the queen's vital role and avoid practices that disrupt her or natural mating cycles. Our hive designs even prevent overcrowding and overworking, ensuring the bees' wellbeing, and we’ll never use harmful chemicals or pesticides during our work. Instead, we’re constantly adapting our practices for the sustainable future of our bees. Choosing Primal by Nature demonstrates an awareness of the broader impact of consumer choices and a desire to support businesses that operate with integrity and respect for the natural world. Giving luxury Mānuka honey, therefore, becomes an act of conscious consumption, aligning with the values of those who appreciate both quality and ethical practices in their Mānuka honey gift. The Art of Meaningful Gifting with Primal by Nature The art of gifting lies in the ability to convey genuine sentiment and create meaningful connections. Primal by Nature, with its quality Mānuka honey sourced from the pristine landscapes of New Zealand, embodies this art form with unparalleled grace, making it the perfect luxury present. It transcends the realm of mere material possessions, offering a gift that speaks of natural luxury, wellbeing and thoughtful consideration. From its meticulous production to the unique properties and ethical foundations, every aspect of Primal by Nature contributes to its exceptional appeal as a Mānuka honey gift. Don’t choose an ordinary gift, offer a taste of New Zealand’s natural heritage. To explore our range of world class Mānuka honey, check out our website and explore our shop - which offers a range of UMF-graded products that suit all tastes.
Learn more
Exploring the Cultural Significance of the Mānuka Tree
While Mānuka honey enjoys global fame for its remarkable properties, the story of the Mānuka tree runs much deeper in the native roots of New Zealand. Beyond its role as the source of this “liquid gold”, the Mānuka tree holds a significant place in Māori culture, history and the country’s unique identity - which is what brings such significant value to Mānuka honey as a product. Today, we’ll delve into the fascinating cultural connections between New Zealand and the versatile Mānuka tree - responsible for producing the ingredients to Primal by Nature's world class honey products. Mānuka in Māori Tradition For indigenous Māori, the Mānuka tree has been an invaluable treasure for centuries as it’s been woven deeply into their daily lives and spiritual practices. This versatile tree, known formally as “Leptospermum scoparium” provided a wealth of resources, showcasing the interconnectedness of Māori and the natural world. In terms of traditional medicine, the Māori harnessed Mānuka’s properties in numerous ways. According to studies, infusions made with the leaves were used to reduce fevers and treat stomach and urinary problems. Gum produced from the tree was used as a moisturiser for burns, and to ease coughing. Meanwhile, decoctions from the bark were used as a sedative, a mouthwash and to treat diarrhoea and fever. Beyond its value for wellbeing, Mānuka also played a crucial role in practical applications. Its strong and durable wood was expertly crafted into tools, weapons and even building materials for houses. The bark, when stripped and shaped, became containers for storing food and water while the inner bark, known for its waterproof nature, was ingeniously used as a protective layer for roofing. Furthermore, the Māori held a deeply spiritual appreciation for the Mānuka tree, likely featuring it in rituals and ceremonies. In Māori folklore, the Mānuka tea tree was considered a gift from the gods - containing healing powers to protect the people. The honey produced from its nectar was believed to carry the same divine properties and was thought capable of curing illnesses and warding off evil spirits. This holistic approach to utilizing the Mānuka tree highlights the profound respect Māori held for the natural world and their understanding of its intricate balance. Mānuka Woven Into New Zealand’s Identity The Mānuka tree isn’t just a botanical specimen - it’s deeply intertwined with New Zealand’s national identity - embodying the very essence of the country’s natural beauty, resilience and cultural heritage. Native to New Zealand, early European settlers were quick to pick up on the knowledge founded by the Māori and used the leaves to make tea and even brew beer. They extracted oil from the leaves for medicinal and cosmetic purposes and the wood of the tree was used for tools and furniture. These days, the sight of Mānuka flowers - with its delicate white and pink flowers blooming across diverse landscapes - has become an iconic representation of the country’s natural beauty. These blossoms, often captured in photographs and artwork, evoke a sense of serenity and connection to the land - resonating deeply with Kiwis and visitors alike. It’s due to this iconic nature of the Mānuka plant that it now sits at the centre of modern New Zealand society - playing a vital role in environmental conservation, cultural revival and even artistic inspiration. The Mānuka tree has become the focal point for protecting and cultivating the environment through recognition of the vital role that Mānuka plays in the ecosystem. In 2019, an experiment was carried out by the Institute of Environmental Science and Research (ESR) to determine whether Mānuka trees can reduce nitrate run-off from farms entering the shores of a lake in the Waikato. Results confirmed that the root system of the tree was capable of reducing both pathogens and nitrates. There’s been increased movements to protect and restore Mānuka forests - these movements have been driven by the understanding that these forests provide essential habitat for a variety of native birds and insects, contributing to the overall biodiversity and health of the New Zealand environment. Government initiatives in this space include the National Policy Statement for Indigenous Biodiversity - introduced in 2023 in an effort to require local councils to actively protect and enhance indigenous biodiversity - including Mānuka plants. The Mānuka plant was also one of the key species in many projects of the Government’s One Billion Trees programme, allocating funding to support native forest restoration. Furthermore, there’s been a resurgence of interest in traditional Māori knowledge surrounding the Mānuka tree. This knowledge, passed down orally through generations, encompasses a deep understanding of the tree’s properties and uses for wellbeing, tools and spiritual practices. Today, communities and organisations are actively working to understand and revitalise these traditions, incorporating them into contemporary practices such as natural health remedies and ecological restoration projects. This cultural revival not only strengthens the connection between Māori and their heritage, but also provides valuable insights for creating a more sustainable and harmonious relationship with the natural world. The Mānuka tree also serves as a powerful muse for artists, writers, and musicians. Its beauty, resilience, and cultural significance has inspired creative expressions in a variety of forms. Painters capture the delicate beauty of Mānuka blossoms on canvas, while writers weave tales of its strength and connection to the land. Musicians find inspiration in the rustling leaves and the humming of bees amongst the Mānuka flowers, composing songs that evoke the spirit of New Zealand. This artistic engagement further reinforces the Mānuka tree's place in New Zealand's identity, ensuring its story continues to be told and celebrated for generations to come. Mānuka: A Slice of Culturally Significant Kiwi Nature The Mānuka tree is far more than just a source of the famous honey that bears its name, it represents a link between the country’s past, present and likely its future. For the Māori people, it was considered a treasure for centuries. They used it for medicinal purposes, tools and shelter - even using it within spiritual contexts. This intimate knowledge and respect for the Mānuka tree speaks volumes about their attitude towards the plant - it wasn’t a resource to be exploited, but a living entity to be protected. Today, the Mānuka tree continues to inspire and connect people to the land. Conservation efforts continue to preserve and restore Mānuka forests, recognising their vital role in biodiversity and ecosystem health. By appreciating the cultural significance of the Mānuka tree, we gain a deeper understanding of New Zealand’s unique story. It’s one of resilience, resourcefulness and a deep connection to the natural world.
Learn more
From Hive to Jar: How We Harvest Mānuka Honey
Mānuka honey is unlike any other type of food product - it’s valued for its powerful wellbeing properties and distinctive taste. At Primal by Nature, we know that the harvest process plays a crucial role in delivering a pure, high-quality product. From the moment our bees collect the nectar from wild Mānuka tree flowers to our careful extraction process, every step has been carefully designed to preserve our honey’s natural goodness. With Primal by Nature, you can trust in the care and transparency we bring to every step of the process, preserving its potency and delivering quality Mānuka honey. Finding the Perfect Mānuka Environment Creating quality Mānuka honey begins long before it reaches your jar - it starts with the Mānuka plant itself. Mānuka honey originates from the New Zealand native Mānuka tree (Leptospermum scoparium). While this tree is widely considered to be native to New Zealand, there has been unofficial speculation that the tree may also grow in specific parts of Australia. This native shrub produces flowers that bees flock to for their nectar, resulting in the unique flavours and well-being benefits that make Mānuka honey so prized. At Primal by Nature, we ensure that our hives are placed in untouched, pristine areas that are rich in Mānuka flowers. This sustainable, ethical approach not only supports our local bee populations, but it also guarantees that our honey is of the highest quality. By carefully selecting locations that are abundant in wild Mānuka, we create an ideal environment for our bees to thrive - which enhances the purity and potency of our honey. This commitment to sourcing means that every jar of Mānuka honey reflects our dedication to quality and sustainability, allowing you to enjoy honey that is both high grade and delicious. The Role of Bees in Harvesting Mānuka Honey The process of bees collecting Mānuka honey is done during a narrow window of only a few weeks every year, when the Mānuka flower is blooming. This short flowering season can also become easily affected by hostile weather conditions - which only further increases the rarity of collecting Mānuka. During one foraging trip, a single worker bee can collect the nectar from over one hundred flowers. Once the bees have returned to the hive, the unloading process begins. The house bees will receive the nectar and begin to produce Mānuka honey by adding enzymes and passing the nectar in a chain. This process alters the honey’s PH and chemical composition, whilst also reducing any excess water content - which helps with preservation. To properly dry the honey, the bees will spread it over honeycombs to increase the surface area, then fan their wings for airflow. This reduces the moisture content to below 20%, enhancing the viscosity of the Mānuka honey. Once dried, the honey will be stored in honeycomb cells which are capped with beeswax, further aiding the preservation of the product and keeping it secure until it’s harvested. Gentle Extraction: Preserving Mānuka Honey’s Natural Qualities The extraction methods used by Primal's beekeepers play a crucial role in preserving the pure Mānuka ingredients. The process begins with our beekeepers paying extra care to minimise any disruption to the bees. Primal by Nature is a big believer in ethical beekeeping, which means ensuring the welfare and safety of bees and their natural surroundings. When harvesting the honey, our beekeepers will avoid disrupting the work of the queen bee, allowing her to continue populating the colony naturally without artificial mating practices. We also refuse to use any harmful chemicals, pesticides or honey replacements in order to prioritise our bees’ health and sustainability. Our beekeepers remain vigilant throughout the extraction, they’ll continue to adjust their methods to ensure a thriving, healthy environment for the bees and preserve both their vitality and the quality of the honey they produce. The resulting honey mixture that our beekeepers extract is then kept in large, sterile drums to avoid contamination. From here, the product is lightly churned to break up any clumps - this process is undertaken without heating or influencing the MGO (methylglyoxal) content. This keeps the Mānuka honey pure, raw and unpasteurised. Testing Our Mānuka Honey The final step of harvesting and producing Mānuka honey is the testing stage, which ensures the Mānuka product can be certified to meet the high quality standards that we strive to meet. The testing process for Mānuka honey is essential to confirm its authenticity. Only independent, accredited laboratories should conduct testing for premium brands to ensure accuracy and impartiality. By using unbiased facilities, consumers can trust that the honey they purchase meets all the necessary quality standards.This is why Primal by Nature will use a third-party laboratory to conduct all of our testing practices. One of the key tests that we have conducted on our honey is the Unique Mānuka Factor (UMF™) certification, which assesses the essential chemical and DNA markers that verify its purity. While other certifications like KFactor, BioActive, MGS and NPA exist, UMF™ stands apart by measuring all of the key bioactive ingredients. This makes UMF™ the gold standard for authenticating Mānuka honey, saving you time in choosing the right product. Though it’s primarily for raw honey, UMF™ can also certify other Mānuka products such as lozenges. Our honey is also tested to meet the scientific definition of monofloral Mānuka honey, which is set by the Ministry of Primary Industries (MPI). Each honey product that we sell meets and often exceeds the minimum required leptosperin and MGO concentrations set by UMFHA. This is our way of reassuring consumers that they’re buying 100% genuine New Zealand Mānuka honey. Harvesting Mānuka Honey With Great Care The process that Primal by Nature follows for harvesting Mānuka honey is focused on preserving the natural qualities of the product, every step of the way. From carefully selecting hives in pristine environments that are rich in Mānuka flowers, to employing gentle extraction techniques that put the needs of the bees at the centre, every effort ensures the honey remains pure and potent. Ethical beekeeping practices protect the bees and the hive, avoiding chemicals and disruptions. Plus, we incorporate rigorous testing - including UMF™ certification - as a way of guaranteeing that every jar of honey that we produce reflects the highest standards of quality, sustainability and authenticity.
Learn more
Behind The Hive: Primal's Commitment To Ethical Beekeeping
Here at Primal by Nature, we work hard to deliver a product that isn’t just high quality and great-tasting but also created with sustainable and ethical practice. Thanks to the dedicated work of our beekeepers, we can produce high-grade mānuka honey with a process we can stand by. With the growing importance of ethical practice in all food industries - especially honey - our beekeepers work hard to not just meet the standard, but raise it higher. The welfare and sustainability of our hives is a critical component to the creation of Primal by Nature's products, we remain committed as ever to maintaining this. Our beekeepers are experts - knowing exactly what our bees need and how to produce the best-tasting and highest-quality mānuka honey to leave New Zealand’s shores. What Is Ethical Beekeeping? Ultimately, ethical beekeeping is all about ensuring the welfare and safety of bees and their natural surroundings. Preserving their environment, treating the bees and their process with respect, maintaining the hives and protecting the hives from external dangers are among the practices that our beekeepers commonly follow. To care for the honey, workers must first care for the ones that create it. It’s a requirement for our beekeepers to understand not just bees and their honey-making processes, but the wider picture as a whole. It’s learning about the environment - the range of factors that influence the honey-making process. Beekeepers that understand this ecosystem will practise their craft ethically and responsibly. Caring for bees means caring about the world they live in. Our beekeepers know this, and their work reflects it. The Role of Primal by Nature's Beekeepers The beekeeping crew at Primal by Nature are trained, expert professionals who deeply understand and care for the lifestyle and work of their bees. They understand the impacts of their work - if it’s done well, the bees thrive and the mānuka honey produced is high quality. We ensure every beekeeper who joins Primal by Nature is qualified, but ongoing training is a pivotal part of our crew’s ongoing development. Our beekeepers will be regularly researching new sustainable practices and refining their craft with the best interests of the bees. There’s day-to-day responsibilities that our beekeepers hold. Depending on the weather conditions, our team might be carrying out pest checks - which ensure the bees are safe from animals that might do harm - or be monitoring the colonies for any signs of distress. The beekeepers will inspect the brood (or nurseries) inside the hives to make sure the baby bees are growing healthily, they’ll also check whether particular colonies have larger amounts of eggs appearing. This might be a sign the queen bee is actively laying. Add in the additional responsibilities of caring for the wider environment, plus harvesting the mānuka, and you quickly realise our beekeepers have a lot of work on their plate. It’s critical the process is ethically practised so our bees remain safe and the honey remains at the highest standard possible. How Do Our Beekeepers Ethically Maintain and Harvest the Mānuka Honey? Beekeeping is all about working in harmony with the bees. There’s a partnership between the keeper and the insects, when both work together the product is of the highest quality. It begins with letting nature run its course. Our beekeepers know that our bees have been producing mānuka honey for thousands of years without their help, so there’s no room for micromanagement or over-controlling the bee’s environment. Sometimes the best way to help bees when they’re overcoming environmental or health challenges, is to leave them alone. Our beekeepers practise a non-invasive approach to maintaining the hives and harvesting the honey. This is done to minimise the stress and disruption to the bees, it’s critical they remain feeling safe so the quality of their product never drops. The queen, for example, is integral to a hive’s survival. When our beekeepers harvest the mānuka, they’re trained to recognise the queen and avoid disrupting her during the honey collection. Also, we avoid any practices that encourage artificial mating within the hives, to ensure the queen does what she does best - populate the colonies. Our hives are designed for the environmental thriving of the bees. We actively avoid overcrowding the hives and we’re also intentional about the size of the hives - for instance the larger they are, the more often the bees can find themselves overworked. Our hives are sized appropriately to protect the work ethic of these productive creatures. We won’t use honey replacements or any harmful chemicals, we’ll also avoid any pesticides that can cause serious harm to bee populations. At the end of the day, our keepers are constantly working to provide a sustainable future for our bees - which means remaining vigilant to their practices and tweaking them whenever necessary. The Benefit of High Standards for Mānuka Honey Beekeeping Because mānuka is such a high quality honey product, the results must be reflected in the work to create it. The ethical practices of our beekeepers leads to a superior form of mānuka honey, free from contaminants and rich in natural nutrients. Bees need the freedom to create mānuka honey in the most natural way possible - the more human interference, the more likely the product will lose its value, either through its taste or overall quality. It’s critical that when our beekeepers are overseeing the honey making process, they understand their role is one of stewardship, not control. Some beekeepers might believe they know best and fall into the trap of over-controlling the mānuka making process. This will likely lead to a form of honey product that barely reflects mānuka’s quality, ingredients and taste. Our beekeepers are different, they understand the delicacy of the work the bees are carrying out - and what a beekeeper’s responsibility actually looks like. We’re transparent with our ethical approach to beekeeping, because it’s important our customers can trust the product they’re purchasing. We live in an age where sustainability and ethical practice actually means something - they can’t be meaningless virtues, they’ve got to be put to work. Fortunately, every team member at Primal by Nature - starting with our beekeepers on the ground - are deeply dedicated to sustainable practice. It’s not just a virtue, it’s a conviction that our entire team holds dear. It ensures the honey production remains as natural as possible, and that the product we produce is the best form of mānuka honey available on the market. Ethical Beekeeping Results in the Best Mānuka Products Available At Primal by Nature, ethical beekeeping is more than a practice, it’s a promise. Our dedication to ethical beekeeping ensures that every jar of mānuka honey is hitting the highest standards, whilst still supporting sustainable and responsible production. Our beekeepers are always concentrated on the well-being of our bees, ensuring their harvesting and maintenance work supports environmental stewardship and the health of our ecosystems. Purchase Primal by Nature's mānuka product and you’re not just buying a world class product, but you’re subscribing to the values of ethical practice and sustainability that we stand by. You’re making a choice that goes beyond honey - it’s supporting the future of the planet and the welfare of its hard working pollinators.
Learn more