All that glitters is not gold : manuka honey and the issue of authenticity

Focuses on the composition of honey, including a description of its antibacterial effects. Explains that some honeys, particularly mānuka (Leptospermum scoparium), exhibit additional in vitro antibacterial activity referred to as non-peroxide activity (NPA). Describes the system now used by the UMF Honey Association to grade mānuka honey based on its levels of methylglyoxal (MGO), dihydroxyacetone (DHA) and leptosperin. Provides data about the value of honey exports to New Zealand, and the adulteration of the product over thousands of years to extend or falsify the crop. Overviews work to develop a Government-backed definition to safeguard the authenticity of mānuka honey products by ascertaining the unique chemicals present in mānuka honey. Presents the results of a research project carried out by scientists at ESR Ltd, Christchurch, to investigate chemical markers of mānuka honey authenticity. Source: National Library of New Zealand Te Puna Matauranga o Aotearoa, licensed by the Department of Internal Affairs for re-use under the Creative Commons Attribution 3.0 New Zealand Licence.