How is Mānuka Honey Different from Regular Honey?

Honey is a popular natural sweetener that has been used for centuries. However, not all honey is created equal. Mānuka honey is a unique type of honey that offers several potential health benefits not found in regular honey.

Mānuka honey comes from the nectar of the mānuka tree, which is native to New Zealand. It has been found to have antibacterial properties and is used in wound healing, digestive health, and other medical applications. But what sets Mānuka honey apart from regular honey?

Here are the key differences:

Mānuka honey has unique antibacterial properties.

Studies have found that Mānuka honey has higher levels of certain compounds that give it unique antibacterial properties not found in regular honey. Specifically, Mānuka honey contains a compound called methylglyoxal (MGO), which has been shown to have antibacterial effects against a range of bacteria, including antibiotic-resistant strains.

Regular honey, on the other hand, does not have the same level of antibacterial properties. Although all honey contains some antimicrobial compounds, the levels are generally much lower than in Mānuka honey.

Mānuka honey has a different grading system.

Unlike regular honey, which is often graded based on color and flavor, Mānuka honey is graded based on its level of antibacterial activity. This grading system takes into account the level of MGO and other compounds in the honey, and is used to determine the potency of the honey.

Mānuka honey is more expensive and harder to find.

Due to its unique properties and high demand, Mānuka honey is generally more expensive than regular honey. It's also harder to find, as it is only produced in certain regions of New Zealand.

Regular honey, on the other hand, is widely available and less expensive.

Avocado honey can enhance the properties of regular Mānuka honey.

Bees that feed on avocado nectar produce honey that is high in antioxidants and has similar antibacterial properties to manuka honey. Combining avocado honey with Mānuka honey can enhance the antibacterial properties of the honey.

At The Happy Bee Co-op, our partner apiaries raise the bees to help to pollinate the Haas avocado crop and they also visit the Mānuka bush to create a unique blend that has even more potential health benefits than Mānuka honey alone.

In conclusion, Mānuka honey offers several unique health benefits that are not found in regular honey, including higher levels of antibacterial properties and a different grading system. While it may be more expensive and harder to find, the potential health benefits make it a worthwhile investment. Additionally, combining avocado honey with Mānuka honey can enhance the antibacterial properties even further.