An Honest Review of Manuka South Manuka Honey (2025)

Manuka honey has taken the health world by storm, and for good reason—this golden, velvety treasure from New Zealand is celebrated not just for its deliciously rich flavor but also for its impressive health benefits. But with so many options out there, finding the right jar can feel a bit overwhelming. That’s where Manuka South comes in—a brand known for delivering premium-quality Manuka honey that keeps enthusiasts buzzing.

Today, I’m taking a closer look at their UMF 15+ variety to uncover what makes it special. From its taste and texture to its authenticity and value, I’ll be giving you the scoop on whether this jar deserves a spot in your pantry. Whether you’re a long-time fan of Manuka honey or simply curious about the hype, stick around for an honest, in-depth review of Manuka South Manuka Honey.

Taste and Appearance

The first thing I noticed about Manuka South’s UMF 15+ honey was its incredibly smooth texture. It’s luxuriously creamy, making it an absolute pleasure to spread on toast or drizzle over warm biscuits. The taste is distinctly different from regular honey – it’s dark, rich, and has a sweet flavor with a hint of caramel. I must say, the sweetness is not overpowering, which I appreciate. Instead, it’s more subdued, which allows the other flavor notes to shine through.

However, I did find the honey to be a bit too dark compared to other Manuka honeys I’ve tried. While the color can vary naturally, this particular batch seemed almost too dark, which made me slightly concerned about its freshness. Another point worth noting is that the consistency wasn’t as thick as I’ve come to expect from high-grade Manuka honey. For those who prefer a denser honey, this might be a bit of a letdown. Despite these minor drawbacks, the flavor experience was still delightful, especially if you enjoy a more robust honey.

Grades Available

Manuka South is a licensed UMF™ certified producer, which is a significant mark of quality. For those who may not be familiar, the Unique Manuka Factor (UMF) grading system is one of the few trusted standards that measure the purity and quality of Manuka honey. According to the UMF Honey Association, Manuka South holds license number #1053, which confirms that their products meet the strict criteria set for genuine Manuka honey.

The brand offers a range of UMF grades, including UMF 5+, 10+, 15+, 20+, 24+, and even a rare UMF 32+ for those seeking the highest potency. This wide selection allows consumers to choose a grade that best suits their needs, whether they’re looking for something mild or something with maximum medicinal strength. The UMF 15+ variety, which I tried, is right in the middle, offering a good balance between potency and affordability.

Purity and Authenticity

One of the key factors in choosing Manuka honey is its purity, and Manuka South excels in this area. I purchased this honey with the hope that it would help with my mild acne. Although I initially experienced some breakouts, my skin showed significant improvement after a month of use. The honey not only helped clear my acne but also brightened my skin and reduced the appearance of scars. This personal experience greatly enhanced the product’s value for me, highlighting its potential benefits beyond just being a delicious treat. Additionally, the honey is non-GMO verified and certified Halal by FIANZ Halal, making it appealing to a wider audience.

Brand Reputation

Manuka South has built a solid reputation over the years, not just for their Manuka honey, but also for their range of other bee-related products like propolis, bee pollen, and royal jelly. What further sets them apart is their commitment to transparency and traceability. Every jar of honey can be traced back to its source in New Zealand, which is a reassuring factor for anyone concerned about the authenticity of their purchase.

The brand also carries the FernMark Licence, with the number 100264, which certifies the product’s New Zealand origin. This is a significant credential as it aligns with the stringent standards set by New Zealand’s export authorities. Online reviews for Manuka South products are generally positive, which reflects the brand’s good standing among consumers.

Packaging and Size

When my jar of Manuka South UMF 15+ honey arrived, I was pleased with the packaging. It was well-packed, with no signs of spillage, which is always a good start. The honey comes in a sturdy black plastic container with a wide lid, making it easy to scoop out the honey, whether you’re using a spoon or a knife.

The available sizes include 250g (8.8oz) and 500g (1.1lb), with multipack options also available for those who like to stock up. However, I did notice that they don’t offer smaller, more convenient options like snap packs or squeeze bottles, which some competitors provide. While the current packaging is durable and practical, having a more portable option would be a nice addition for on-the-go users.

Everything on the label is clear and easy to understand, including the batch number, MGO level (which indicates the methylglyoxal content), and company information. This transparency is crucial for consumers who want to know exactly what they’re getting.

Price and Value

One of the significant drawbacks of Manuka South Manuka honey is its price. The UMF 15+ grade costs around $76.00 on their website, and while you might find it cheaper from other retailers, it’s still on the pricey side. Given the small jar size, this can be a tough pill to swallow, especially if you’re new to Manuka honey and unsure of its benefits.

That said, the honey’s high UMF rating, purity, and effectiveness for both culinary and therapeutic uses do add considerable value. It also makes for a thoughtful gift, particularly for friends or family members who appreciate natural remedies.

Overall Rating

In conclusion, Manuka South Manuka honey is a high-quality product with several notable benefits. It offers a rich, complex taste, top-tier purity and authenticity, and a strong brand reputation. However, the honey’s thin consistency and lack of convenient packaging options are drawbacks. Additionally, the price point may be prohibitive for some, especially considering the quantity provided.

Overall, I would rate this honey highly for its quality and effectiveness, though I have some reservations about its cost and packaging. If you’re looking for a potent, authentic Manuka honey and don’t mind paying a premium, Manuka South is definitely worth considering. For those new to Manuka honey or on a budget, exploring other options before making a purchase might be worthwhile.