An Honest Review of Manukora Manuka Honey (2025 Edition)

As someone who swears by the magic of manuka honey, I’m constantly on the hunt for the perfect jar to satisfy both my sweet tooth and my health goals. So, when I came across Manukora, a family-owned company that’s been crafting manuka honey since 1998, I knew I had to give it a try.

Founded by beekeeper Bryce Hooton, Manukora has built its reputation on producing ethically sourced, sustainably made honey with unmatched quality. Naturally, I couldn’t resist diving into their lineup, especially their famed MGO 850+ variety.

In this post, I’ll walk you through my experience with Manukora, covering everything from taste and texture to health benefits and overall value. By the end, you’ll have a clear picture of whether this golden goodness deserves a spot in your pantry (spoiler: it might just change your life).

Taste, Texture, and My First Impressions

Let me tell you—opening my first jar of Manukora was like unwrapping a gift I didn’t know I needed. The honey glowed with a rich, medium-dark caramel hue that just screamed, “I’m the real deal.” The first spoonful? Absolute heaven. It was sweet, but not cloying, with a deep floral undertone that lingered pleasantly on my palate. If honey could flirt, this one was definitely doing it.

The texture was another highlight. Some honeys are so runny they drip everywhere; others are so thick they refuse to budge from the spoon. Manukora nailed it. It’s luxuriously smooth and creamy—perfect for spreading on toast, swirling into tea, or drizzling over a bowl of yogurt. My favorite? A simple teaspoon straight from the jar.

Oh, and let me share a little personal win here. When I first tried Manukora, I was battling a pesky cold. You know the drill: sore throat, runny nose, and a general feeling of blah. Within two days of taking a teaspoon daily, my symptoms started to clear up. I’m not saying it’s a miracle cure, but it definitely felt like one.

Grades and What They Mean

One of the things I love about Manukora is the variety. They offer seven different MGO grades, ranging from 50+ for everyday use to 1123+ for those who want the crème de la crème of antibacterial potency. For the uninitiated, MGO (methylglyoxal) is the compound that gives manuka honey its legendary healing properties. The higher the number, the stronger the benefits.

Here’s a quick breakdown:

• MGO 50+: A gentle introduction to manuka honey. Great for adding to your daily routine or as a natural sweetener.
• MGO 100+: Slightly stronger, with more antibacterial properties. Ideal for general wellness.
• MGO 200+: A solid choice if you’re looking for enhanced health benefits, like immune support or soothing irritated skin.
• MGO 600+: This is where the heavy-hitters come in. Perfect for tackling more significant health issues or giving your immune system a serious boost.
• MGO 850+: The star of this review. Potent and packed with benefits for digestion, immunity, and even wound care.
• MGO 1000+ and 1123+: For those who want the absolute best. These grades are the gold standard for therapeutic use.

Personally, I’ve found the MGO 850+ variety strikes the right balance for me. It’s strong enough to deliver noticeable health benefits, but not so intense that I feel like I need to ration it. Whether you’re soothing a sore throat, aiding digestion, or just enjoying it as a treat, there’s a grade for everyone.

Purity and Transparency

What sets Manukora apart from so many other brands is their commitment to authenticity. Each jar comes with a unique QR code you can scan to trace your honey back to its source. How cool is that? When I scanned mine, I was able to see exactly where the honey was harvested in New Zealand, right down to the region. It made me feel connected—not just to the product, but to the process and the bees behind it.

Their honey is also certified by the Unique Mānuka Factor Honey Association (UMFHA), which means it has been rigorously tested for quality, purity, and potency. According to the UMFHA website, it holds the license number #2228. That little UMF logo on the jar serves as a seal of trust, and every batch undergoes a four-factor testing process to ensure you’re getting the real deal.

Knowing this gave me peace of mind every time I drizzled Manukora over my breakfast or stirred it into my tea. In a world where fake honey is all too common, having that level of transparency and traceability is a big deal.

Brand Reputation: A Trustworthy Name in Manuka Honey

One of the things that stood out to me about Manukora is their unwavering commitment to sustainability and authenticity. They don’t just produce great honey—they go the extra mile to ensure their impact on the environment is minimal and their practices are ethical.

For starters, their honey is sourced from remote, pristine regions of New Zealand, like Northland and the East Cape, areas renowned for their rich manuka nectar. They work closely with local beekeepers, forming a community-driven approach that not only supports the beekeeping industry but also ensures the quality of the honey remains top-notch.

Their packaging also deserves a shoutout. Manukora uses FSC-certified materials, compostable wraps, and BPA-free recycled plastic for their jars. It’s clear they’re thinking about the bigger picture, and as someone who tries to make eco-conscious choices, I really appreciate this.

And it’s not just me. Manukora has earned glowing reviews from thousands of customers on platforms like Amazon, with many praising the honey’s quality, taste, and effectiveness. Seeing this kind of consistent positive feedback gave me even more confidence in their brand.

Packaging and Convenience: More Than Just a Pretty Jar

Let’s talk about the packaging. Manukora has struck the perfect balance between aesthetics, functionality, and sustainability. Their jars come in two main sizes: 8.8oz (250g) and 1.1lb (500g). The smaller jar is perfect for trying out the product or for occasional use, while the larger one is great for regular consumption (and it lasts longer than you’d expect).

For higher MGO grades like 1123+, they’ve elevated the experience by using elegant glass jars that scream luxury. Meanwhile, their lower to mid-grade honey is housed in 100% recycled rPET plastic, which is lightweight and durable—perfect for travel or everyday use.

Manukora also offers squeeze bottles and stick packets, which are an absolute game-changer for on-the-go convenience. I’ve tossed a few stick packs into my bag for work or a weekend hike, and they’re a lifesaver when you want a quick energy boost or need to soothe a scratchy throat. Plus, their sleek design makes these products gift-worthy, whether for a health-conscious friend or someone who simply loves honey.

And here’s another bonus: Manukora honey has an impressive shelf life when stored properly, so you can stock up with confidence, knowing it’ll stay fresh for a long time.

Price and Value: Is It Worth It?

Let’s be honest: high-quality manuka honey isn’t cheap, and Manukora is no exception. Their UMF 16+/MGO 600+ variety costs around $55 for 8.8oz, while the UMF 20+/MGO 850+ variety goes for $80. At first glance, it might feel like a splurge, but when you break it down, the price starts to make sense.

Here’s why: you’re paying for more than just honey. You’re investing in a product that’s sustainably sourced, ethically produced, and packed with potent health benefits. Plus, it’s certified by UMFHA, which ensures you’re getting the real deal—not some low-quality imitation.

Manukora also offers a Subscribe & Save option, which cuts 20% off the price, and they provide free shipping on orders over $50. If you’re like me and plan to use this honey regularly, the subscription service is a great way to save some cash without compromising on quality.

The following chart compares the price of Manukora with that of other brands for similar grades.

Compared to other reputable manuka honey brands, Manukora’s pricing is competitive, especially given the transparency and ethical practices behind the product. Sure, it’s a premium product, but in my experience, it’s worth every penny.

Pros & Cons

Overall Rating: My Final Verdict

If I had to sum up my experience with Manukora in one word, it would be “impressive.” From the moment I opened the jar to my daily teaspoon ritual, this honey has exceeded my expectations in every way. The taste and texture are divine, the health benefits are noticeable, and the brand’s dedication to quality and sustainability shines through in everything they do.

That said, the price might be a consideration for some, particularly if you’re new to manuka honey. However, if you value a product that excels in taste, purity, and therapeutic benefits—while also supporting a brand committed to sustainability—Manukora is a choice you won’t regret.

On a scale of 1 to 10, I’d give it a strong 8/10. While not entirely flawless, it comes remarkably close. So why wait? Treat yourself to a jar and discover the magic of Manukora firsthand. Your taste buds and immune system will thank you!

Nutrition Information

• Calories: 60
• Total Fat: 0g
• Total Carb: 17g
• Total Sugars: 17g
• Sodium: 0mg
• Protein: 0g