There are several reasons why Primal by Nature should be your go-to Mānuka honey brand, but one of our most important factors is our UMF™ certifications. If you’ve recently developed an interest in Mānuka honey, you may have heard the term “UMF” before. If you’re unsure about this term, fear not - you’re in excellent hands!
This article will be your holy grail in understanding what UMF™ means and why UMF™-certified Mānuka honey is by far, the most prevalent variation.
What is UMF™?
The Unique Mānuka Factor or UMF™ is a grading method used to determine authentic monofloral Mānuka honey. Considered by many to be the gold standard of Mānuka honey grading, this specialised method takes into account four key bioactive chemical markers. These four ingredients contribute to the Mānuka honey authenticity, potency, freshness and shelf-life.
- Leptosperin - Mānuka DNA marker
- Dihydroxyacetone (DHA) - Biochemical found in Mānuka nectar
- Methylglyoxal (MGO) - Derived from DHA and supposedly may have antibacterial properties
- Hydroxymethylfurfural (HMF) - a heat-sensitive chemical, determines the freshness
Each one of these bioactive ingredients contributes to the overall grade of the Mānuka honey. Primal by Nature grades are between UMF™ 5+ and UMF™ 25+. As each number increases, you can expect a more rare and premium variation of Mānuka honey.
Is UMF™-Certified Mānuka Honey The Only True Mānuka Honey?
While UMF™ is an excellent method of determining “true” Mānuka honey. By definition, monofloral Mānuka honey is “true” if it follows the guidelines set forth by the New Zealand Government. Part of the criteria one must pass in order to get UMF™ certification is meeting the official requirements from the NZ Ministry of Primary Industries.
These key requirements include:
- A chemical test - four biochemicals must be present
- A DNA test - a minimum concentration of the Mānuka DNA must be present
While this sets the bar for legal definitions, UMF™ goes several steps further in ensuring their approved Mānuka honey is premium, potent and has an extensively long shelf-life. Many people are satisfied with only knowing the MGO concentrations; however, there are several other factors you should consider as MGO can technically be added artificially. In addition, the presence of DHA and HMF also indicates the purity of MGO within the product, - which isn’t legally required to be displayed on the packaging.
Why Is The UMF™ Grade So Important?
UMF™ has grown over the years to become such an integral part of the Mānuka honey buying process. Seeing that unique insignia on each jar gives customers the confidence that they are buying the real deal. Particularly with the number. Nevertheless, while the UMF™ grade can get as high as UMF™ 32+, grades that are Mānuka honey UMF™ 20+ and higher grades are considered some of the best variations of honey on Earth.
What Is The Most Popular UMF™ Grade?
This question may also come down to “how long is a piece of string?” The answer depends entirely on the purpose of your purchase. If you’re looking to enjoy a delicious taste of New Zealand’s purest Mānuka honey, which comes in a reusable glass jar, the entry-level Mānuka honey UMF™ 5+ is extremely popular due to its very reasonable price point.
There are various reasons why one would venture into more premium UMF™ levels. For example, skincare has noticed a Mānuka honey interest spike, thanks to the natural emollient effects, as noted in a 2020 clinical investigation. There has even been speculation that higher MGO concentrations may be correlated with antibacterial properties for the skin. Mānuka honey fans who are aware of these ongoing studies will tend to be more interested in the higher-end products.
Primal by Nature - Sustainably Providing 100% Pure New Zealand Mānuka Honey
Primal by Nature can deliver Mānuka honey from the rawest and primal regions in some of the most remote New Zealand locations. We are your one-stop shop for a sustainable and natural solution. Our Mānuka honey comes in a range of UMF™ strengths.
All Primal by Nature Mānuka honey arrives at your door in recyclable glass jars regardless of the level of MGO or UMF™. We believe that our pure New Zealand Mānuka honey must be the best and should be available to consumers in the same eco-friendly packaging.
Primal by Nature eliminates the confusion surrounding Mānuka honey UMF™ grading systems and standards. As a result, you will be made aware of the different grades and be confident in buying a product that reflects an environmentally conscious brand.
Taking Mānuka honey to the next level, every Primal by Nature glass jar contains a potent primal burst of nature. To taste Mānuka honey of this stature is to embrace nature itself. So take a look at our extensive selection of Mānuka honey products and become one with nature.
