FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
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What does UMF mean?
UMF™ stands for Unique Manuka Factor and was established by the UMF™ Honey Association (UMFHA). The UMF™ grading system appraises natural markers in Manuka honey and assures purity and quality. Only Manuka honey that has been independently tested and verified by the UMFHA is given a UMF™ rating. For more information visitwww.umf.org.nz.
What makes WildCape Manuka Honey different?
WildCape is a single source UMF™ Manuka honey harvested exclusively from the untouched and unspoilt East Cape region of New Zealand. Unlike Manuka honey from other regions which can have a strong flavour and bitter aftertaste, Manuka honey from the East Cape region is highly regarded for its delicious mild flavour. Manuka flowers in the East Cape region produce nectar which is naturally high in Dihydroxyacetone (DHA), a precursor to the compound Methylglyoxal (MGO), resulting in Manuka honey with consistently higher UMF™ levels. Unlike some other Manuka honey producers, WildCape manages its entire production chain – our team of 15 fulltime specialist beekeepers only harvest Manuka honey from hives we 100% own and this is extracted, processed, packed and labelled by hand, in our own facility based in Gisborne. In fact, the only aspect of production WildCape outsourced is the independent laboratory testing and certification of our Manuka honey to ensure only the finest UMF™ Manuka honey makes it into every WildCape jar.
Where does WildCape Manuka Honey come from?
WildCape is the only single source UMFTM Manuka Honey harvested directly from the untouched East Cape region of New Zealand to your home. Geographically isolated by the Raukumara Ranges, the East Cape region of New Zealand has remained sparsely populated and unspoiled. The region still has large tracts of virgin forest and a drive along the coast reveals endless untouched sweeping sandy beaches. After our team of 15 fulltime specialist beekeepers have gathered the boxes containing the honey frames, they are extracted, processed, packed and labelled by hand, in our own private facility located in Gisborne, the only city in the region.
What is the difference between UMF 8+, UMF 10+, UMF 15+ and UMF 20+?
The UMF™ grading system is based on the concentration of Manuka within the honey. The number is made up of three chemical markers that indicate the content of this honey to ensure purity and quality. For more information visit www.umf.org.nz/grading-system
Why is Manuka honey more expensive?
Manuka honey is rare as the Manuka bush is native to New Zealand and only produces nectar for 3-4 weeks a year. On top of this, our hives are in extremely remote, hard to reach locations, and the Manuka honey itself is more challenging for the beekeepers to extract. It is even rarer to produce Manuka honey with a high concentration of MGO, meaning the demand for high-grade UMF™ impacts the price.
How is Manuka honey unique?
Methylgyoxal (MGO), an amazing sugar molecule found in most honeys in small quantities – is up to 100 times stronger in Manuka honey. Additionally, Manuka honey has a very limited harvest period and can only be collected at certain times of the year.
How do I know WildCape Manuka Honey is authentic?
We are serious about the authenticity of our products. Every jar of WildCape Manuka Honey comes with a unique batch code that you can scan to verify its quality and authenticity.
What are the benefits of Manuka honey?
The unique properties of Manuka honey are well known, however we are unable to list these due to New Zealand food regulations. What we can say is that many customers use Manuka honey as part of their daily routine and swear by it.
How long will Manuka honey keep?
Manuka honey will keep for many years provided it’s stored properly, and not exposed to excessive heat. However, as Methylglyoxal (MGO) levels diminish over time we recommend consuming WildCape Manuka Honey by the “Best Before” date marked on pack to ensure the UMFTMrating remains accurate to label. We also recommend WildCape Manuka Honey be stored below 23C (73F).
Can Manuka honey be used for cooking?
Of course! In fact, we highly recommend it. With its rich, bittersweet flavour, Manuka honey can transform any recipe into instant favourite. Try some of our great recipes.
Can I eat Manuka honey if I am diabetic?
As honey contains natural sugars, including fructose and glucose, it is recommended that you consult a healthcare professional before consuming honey products.
Can I eat Manuka honey when I'm pregnant?
Manuka honey has been enjoyed by women for years, both while pregnant and breastfeeding, with no reported issues.
Is Manuka honey safe for children?
While honey is safe for most children, it is not suitable for infants under 1 year of age.
How do you use Manuka honey?
WildCape customers have shared many great ideas with us on how they use Manuka honey. Most enjoy at least one teaspoon of WildCape Manuka Honey each day, either on its own, or dissolved in hot (not boiling) water, tea or other beverages. WildCape Manuka Honey is also widely used as a natural replacement for refined sugar, either drizzled over breakfast, dessert dishes, or used as an ingredient in cooking. Its rich, bittersweet flavour can transform any recipe into an instant favourite. Try some of our delicious recipes.
Why does Manuka honey vary in colour, texture and flavour?
It is normal for a natural product like Manuka honey to vary in colour, texture and flavour depending on the region it comes from, and other seasonal variations. Unlike Manuka honey from other regions which can have a strong flavour and bitter aftertaste, Manuka honey from the East Cape region of New Zealand is highly regarded for its delicious mild flavour – this is attributed to WildCape being a single source UMFTMManuka honey harvested exclusively from the untouched and unspoilt East Cape region.
How do I store my Manuka honey?
We recommend storing WildCape Manuka Honey below 23C (73F).
Why are there crystals in my honey?
We cream our Manuka honey, to keep it smooth – however, it is normal for the honey to naturally crystallise if it has been exposed to hot temperatures and then cools down. We recommend WildCape Manuka Honey be stored below 23C (73F).
Is anything added to WildCape Manuka Honey?
Every jar of WildCape Manuka Honey is from a source of pure goodness – nothing is added and nothing is taken away.
What if I have a problem with my WildCape Manuka Honey?
We guarantee the quality of every WildCape product. If for any reason you’re not happy about the Manuka honey you’ve purchased from us, please get in touch about sending it back to us for a full refund.