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Primal by Nature Recognised With Gold & Platinum Awards
Primal by Nature is delighted to announce another significant achievement at the prestigious London International Honey Awards; our brand has received a gold award for our UMF 25+ Mānuka honey and a coveted platinum award for our UMF 15+ product. This is the second year running that these products have been recognised for their quality. Judges gave both our 15+ and 25+ honey products the same awards in 2024, and awarded our 15+ honey a Gold award in 2022. This latest result is a celebration of our commitment to providing a Mānuka honey product that we consider to be the pinnacle of luxury. It’s again cemented our reputation for crafting a truly remarkable product, designed to offer our customers an award-winning Mānuka honey experience. The London Honey Awards: A Benchmark of Excellence The London International Honey Awards exist to acknowledge quality in the world of honey, aiming to champion high-calibre honey products around the globe. Utilising a rigorous “blind” tasting method, each honey product is evaluated purely on their intrinsic qualities by a panel of expert judges. Each sample is meticulously assessed for appearance, odour, texture, flavour and mouthfeel, ensuring that only the finest honey is bestowed an award. This impartial and thorough process makes the award process highly reliable, ensuring the awarded product is considered to be truly superior. This gives customers an assurance of excellence, and also enhances a brand’s standing in both domestic and export markets. For Primal by Nature, these awards are more than accolades - they validate our honey as some of the best in the world. How Primal by Nature Achieved Award-Winning Excellence Our success was not by chance. It isn’t by coincidence that our New Zealand Mānuka honey products, particularly our UMF 15+ product, win time and again with the judging panels. The award-winning identity of the Primal by Nature brand is the result of a deeply-rooted philosophy that honours nature, works with cutting-edge science and is built upon an unyielding pursuit of luxury. Primal by Nature was created with a singular mission: to deliver the most authentic, luxurious and high-grade Mānuka honey available on the market. Our harvesting methods are deeply respectful of the Mānuka tree and the bees that collect its nectar, ensuring an approach that works as one with nature. We believe in minimal interference with the bees’ natural environment, placing our hives strategically in the remote hilltops and secluded valleys of New Zealand, where the Mānuka plant flourishes. Our dedicated beekeepers often access these remote sites by helicopter, adopting a non-invasive approach to steward the tireless work of the honey bees that craft this premium Mānuka honey during the flower’s short season of bloom. The journey continues within Primal by Nature’s state-of-the-art laboratories. Here, our world-class honey is put through the paces - our independent IANZ-certified labs adhere to strict requirements to ensure that every batch of monofloral Mānuka honey is thoroughly tested for authenticity, shelf-life and freshness. Each jar is validated against both our stringent brand specifications and customer expectations, guaranteeing compliance with relevant market standards. Once this is complete, the products are packaged in shimmering glass; a conscious choice that’s rooted in our commitment to luxury. These jars underscore our dedication to sustainability. Experience by Primal by Nature Difference Primal by Nature proudly bears the UMF certification, a globally recognised symbol of genuine, high-grade Mānuka honey that’s sourced exclusively from the pristine landscapes of New Zealand. This is a final guarantee of the award-winning quality you’ll experience when you purchase a jar of our New Zealand Mānuka honey. Now is your chance to taste it for yourself - our 15+ and 25+ products are both available on our online store. While our 15+ and 25+ products have both claimed accolades in their own right, our other products are crafted with the same meticulous care and attention to detail. If you’re seeking a Mānuka honey product that delivers a luxury experience, Primal by Nature is your solution for premium, UMF-certified and beautifully-made Mānuka honey that stands apart from the rest. Browse our products here.
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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.
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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.
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Which Mānuka Honey Grade is Best For Your Business?
If you’ve ever looked at a jar of Mānuka honey, you’ve probably noticed a sticker on the label with a particular grade like MGO or UMF™. The letters and numbers might seem confusing, but they exist to help you make an informed choice on which type of Mānuka honey is best suited for your business. The different grades are an indication of the different strengths of each jar - whether it’s the potency, level of antibacterial properties or the authenticity of the product. Selecting the right grade of Mānuka honey can make all the difference to your purchase. So, whether you need specialty products for daily wellbeing, skincare or consumption, we’re here to break down what these grades mean, why they matter and how to pick the right grade of Mānuka honey for you. As a private-label and bulk honey supplier, Primal by Nature understands the challenge your business faces when choosing the right Mānuka honey for your needs. Whether it’s deciphering grades or ensuring the honey’s quality is consistent, we take pride in making it easy for your brand to succeed in a competitive market. It all begins with a deep understanding of the product. Let’s take a closer look at the different grades of Mānuka. What Are MGO and UMF™? The grades you find on the jars of Mānuka Honey can be tricky to understand at first, but they’re essential for knowing exactly what you’re getting in each product. There are two main grading systems: MGO (methylglyoxal) UMF™ (unique Mānuka factor) Methylglyoxal is an organic compound that naturally forms in Mānuka honey. It was first discovered within Mānuka back in 1981, scientists realised it was the key ingredient that made Mānuka such a unique product. Research has since suggested there are potential links between MGO concentrations and antibacterial properties within Mānuka honey. In 2011, a study concluded that MGO did, indeed, play a role in preventing certain bacterial growth. In other words, the MGO grade measures the potency of antibacterial benefits that the honey provides. For more information on this, visit - The Role of Mānuka Honey in Modern Medicine. On the other hand, UMF™ is a more comprehensive certification that takes into account more factors than the other grading systems will. It’s the only system that independently verifies all the elements that make New Zealand Mānuka honey unique. While many people focus only on methylglyoxal (MGO), UMF™ is a more comprehensive assessment of the product. There are four key markers that determine the UMF™ grade: Leptosperin Leptosperin determines the authenticity of Mānuka honey. A unique compound found solely within the nectar of the Mānuka flower, it’s the DNA marker that validates genuine honey. Methylglyoxal (MGO) Methylglyoxal determines the potency of Mānuka honey - it’s these levels that are often sufficient for many Mānuka honey buyers to feel confident in their purchase. Dihydroxyacetone (DHA) Dihydroxyacetone determines the shelf-life of Mānuka honey. This biochemical is the precursor to MGO and will gradually convert to MGO over time. The higher the concentration of DHA, the longer the life of the MGO will be maintained. Hydroxymethylfurfural (HMF) Hydroxymethylfurfural determines the freshness of Mānuka honey. This heat-sensitive compound is an essential factor in determining the quality of Mānuka honey, as it assures the customer that the honey hasn't been stored for too long or processed. Nearly every important aspect that makes up Mānuka honey can be measured using this system, which is why Midlands considers UMF™ to be the most solid and robust method for grading, certifying, and validating monofloral Mānuka honey. Each Mānuka honey product with the UMF™ trademark must pass stringent quality, grading, and rating tests from the Unique Mānuka Factor Honey Association (UMFHA). As UMF™ is the only standard that independently tests the quality of New Zealand Mānuka honey, it reassures consumers worldwide of the strength and purity of each jar they buy. In our case, you can be assured that every jar of Mānuka honey that Midlands produces is certified and validated to UMF™ standards - regardless of whether the jar displays the UMF™ certification or not. As a private-label manufacturer and bulk supplier, we’d work closely with you to select the perfect grade of Mānuka honey to meet your product requirements and market expectations. Every jar of honey that we supply is backed by independent testing and certification, giving you confidence that your customers receive only the highest-quality Mānuka honey, free from impurities and compliant with global standards, irrespective of grade. Different Mānuka Honey Grades for Different Uses Whether you're launching a new private-label product or scaling up your operation with bulk honey as an ingredient, Primal by Nature has the resources and expertise to support your success. Each grade of Mānuka honey we offer has unique qualities, allowing your business to meet the specific needs of your customers. Let’s explore the different grades you could choose from.... UMF™ 5+ to 10+: Everyday Wellness & Food Applications Key Value for Businesses: A cheaper alternative for brands wanting to provide affordable wellness products. UMF™ 5+ and 10+ grades are perfect for daily wellness and general use, offering a gentle boost to support a healthier lifestyle. These grades are perfect for health-conscious consumers, they could be used as a natural sweetener, healthy snack, or incorporated in a meal. A study by Stephens et al. (2010) highlighted a link between lower-grade Mānuka honey and general immune support, making it an excellent choice to support everyday health. Here are a few ways that UMF™ 5+ and 10+ grades could be used in a commercial setting: Retail Jarred honey sold in supermarkets under private-label or mid-tier branding, aimed at health-conscious everyday consumers. Food & Beverage Industry Used as a natural sweetener in health-conscious foods, cereals, and granola bars. An ingredient in premium teas, smoothies, and beverages for added wellness benefits. These grades are ideal for: Grocery Retailers: Offering affordable Mānuka honey products for everyday consumers. Health Food Brands: Adding a functional yet cost-effective ingredient to their product lines. Small Wellness Startups: Launching accessible healthy products, such as syrups or snacks, targeting budget-conscious buyers. Food & Beverage Manufacturers: Incorporating Mānuka into teas, cereals, or granola bars for natural sweetness and beneficial properties. UMF™ 10+ to 15+: Mid-Grade Wellness & Skincare Applications Key Value for Businesses: Balanced potency and price, ideal for products that promise enhanced wellness benefits without a steep cost. If you’re seeking a more potent product that supports everyday wellbeing, the UMF™ 10+ and 15+ Mānuka products are a better fit. Studies have suggested that Mānuka products with such UMF™ grades offer better support for immune systems and work well for minor injuries - like cuts and scrapes when directly applied to the skin. A study by Molan (2009) demonstrated the antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties of mid-grade Mānuka honey, highlighting its potential for both health and skincare applications. The honey’s bioactive compounds make it a sought-after ingredient in premium skincare formulations. These grades balance affordability with higher concentrations of bioactive properties that have been linked to antibacterial activity in many studies, making them versatile for both personal and commercial use. Here are some examples: Retail Jarred honey sold in upscale grocery stores and organic markets, focusing on functional health benefits and natural properties. Healthcare & Pharmaceuticals Used in throat lozenges, cough syrups, and immunity boosters. Incorporation into wound care products or oral sprays targeting mild to moderate conditions. Skincare & Cosmetics Found in natural skincare products like face masks, creams, and cleansers for acne-prone skin and general hydration. Promoted as an ingredient in lip balms or moisturisers for its emollient properties. Hospitality Industry Premium offering in spa treatments, such as face or body wraps that incorporate Manuka honey for its antibacterial and soothing qualities. These grades are best suited for: Premium Grocery Stores: Selling functional health products targeting more health-conscious shoppers. Health and Wellness Brands: Developing immunity-boosting lozenges, tonics, or dietary supplements. Natural Skincare Companies: Crafting acne treatments, face masks, or lip balms that leverage Mānuka’s properties. Spa and Hospitality Businesses: Offering therapeutic treatments like Mānuka-infused wraps or facials to attract upscale customers. UMF™ 20+ to 25+: High Grade Health, Medical & Specialised Skincare Key Value for Businesses: Positioned as a premium product, ideal for businesses targeting niche health and wellness markets. If you’re looking for a Mānuka honey product that brings a bit more impact for health support, perhaps to combat a cold or soothe a sore throat, you may prefer a Mānuka honey product of at least UMF™ 20+. 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 Manuka honey in the health and wellness industry - which makes these grades ideal for businesses seeking to offer premium solutions. These grades are sought after for more potent therapeutic uses, making them suitable for niche health applications and advanced skincare. Retail Jarred honey for specialty health and wellness sections. Giftable items packaged in premium jars or as part of gift sets targeting health-conscious consumers during holidays or special occasions. Medical Field Used in certified wound-care dressings incorporating Mānuka honey. Added to ointments or gels for treating burns, cuts, and skin ulcers. Specialised Skincare Key ingredient in anti-aging serums or intensive repair creams for luxury skincare products aimed at consumers seeking natural ingredients. Marketed as a premium treatment in luxury cosmetic brands. Functional Foods & Beverages Used in high-end health drinks or supplements aimed at improving gut health or addressing inflammation. Inclusion in niche markets like pet wellness products (e.g., supplements or topical treatments for animals). These grades are perfect for: Luxury Health and Wellness Brands: Creating premium supplements or honey jars for discerning customers. Pharmaceutical Companies: Manufacturing wound care dressings, oral sprays, or medical-grade ointments. Luxury Skincare Brands: Formulating intensive repair creams and serums for anti-aging or severe skin conditions. Specialised Retailers: Stocking rare, high-grade honey as a standout product for an elite clientele. UMF™ 31+: Premium Grade Medical & Speciality Applications Key Value for Businesses: Designed for elite markets, these grades enable premium pricing strategies and reinforce brand prestige. Ultra-rare grades like UMF™ 31+ are more than just honey - they’re a symbol of luxury and exclusivity, designed to captivate premium customers who demand the very best. These ultra-premium grades represent the pinnacle of Mānuka honey production, with unmatched potency and rarity. Available only in small batches, grades over UMF™ 31+ cater to businesses targeting high-end customers or launching prestige product lines. At Midlands, our range for these specialty products include: Puriti Mānuka UMF™ 31+ 250g Primal By Nature Mānuka UMF™ 32+ 250g Ideal for businesses that value exclusivity and want to command premium pricing, these grades create an aura of luxury and rarity that few other products can match. These grades are the most potent and are used for serious health conditions or luxury markets due to their exceptional properties. Elite Luxury Wellness Offered as a premium ingredient in ultra-luxury wellness programs or exclusive spa treatments. Packaged in exclusive gift sets or limited-edition jars for high-end markets. Medical Field Utilised in hospitals and medical facilities. A key component in clinical trials or research related to antibacterial resistance. Scientific Research Studied for pharmaceutical innovations. These grades cater to: High-End Luxury Brands: Developing exclusive, limited-edition honey products for premium markets. Elite Medical Facilities: Using certified medical-grade honey for advanced therapeutic applications. Scientific Research Institutions: Studying its properties for pharmaceutical advancements. Luxury Retailers: Offering Mānuka honey as a prestigious gift or collector's item for discerning customers. Not sure which grade is best for your business? Contact our Primal by Nature team for expert advice and tailored solutions to meet your customers' needs.
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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.
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