My Honest Review of Watson & Son Manuka Honey (2025 Edition)

As someone who relishes exploring the various treasures that nature has to offer, I recently stumbled upon a brand that seems to uphold the essence of pure New Zealand—Watson & Son Manuka Honey.

Born from the entrepreneurial spirits of the Watson family in Wairarapa, this brand has found new guardians in Ngāi Tahu, the principal Maori tribe of New Zealand’s picturesque South Island. They harvest their honey amidst the untouched ecosystems of Aotearoa, lending an exotic flavor and pristine purity to their product. Over the years, Watson & Son has carved out a prestigious niche for itself in the global scene, celebrated for the exceptional quality of its Manuka honey.

My Review of Watson & Son Manuka Honey

In this review, I focus primarily on their MGO 400+ variety, which is one of their best-selling Manuka honey.

Taste and Appearance

Let’s talk about what hits you first—the taste and the look of it. When you dip into a jar of Watson & Son Manuka honey, don’t expect the conventional, overly sweetened honey flavor. This one stands out. It’s sumptuous, albeit with a unique profile—it’s less sweet, boasting a slight grainy texture, and presents a delightful creaminess that makes it a perfect spread for morning toasts or rolls. The honey bears a gorgeous golden-brown hue and a consistency that is neither too stiff nor too fluid. Honestly, the tartness, unique to this brand, is a refreshing twist to the typical honey taste.

Grades Available

Venturing deeper into what really sets this honey apart, we encounter the grading system – an impressive show of scientific endorsement. Watson & Son employ what is known as the Molan Gold Standard (MGS) for marking their honey. This standard, named after Dr. Peter Molan, a leading honey scientist who first discovered the unique antibacterial properties of Manuka honey, focuses on measuring the methylglyoxal (MGO) content—a compound key to those sought-after antibacterial traits. The range provided by Watson & Son extends from MGS 5+ to an impactful 25+, mirroring MGO ratings spanning 100+ to 1050+. Additionally, the inclusion of UMF-certified variants adds another layer of trust, showing compliance with other globally recognized benchmarks.

Purity and Authenticity

In a world increasingly skeptical about food origins and processing, Watson & Son Manuka honey earns high marks for authenticity and purity. Each batch undergoes rigorous independent testing, ensuring the absence of antibiotics and participation in the New Zealand Ministry for Primary Industries’ Pesticide Residue Monitoring Program. What’s more reassuring is the brand’s commitment to a natural hive management system that adapulates meticulously to local environmental conditions. These rigorous standards enable them to maintain the natural essence and the therapeutic virtues of the honey, verified through certificates that customers can request anytime.

Brand Reputation

Watson & Son isn’t a newcomer in the business. Established for several years and masterfully navigating the space of high-grade Manuka honey, the brand holds a commendable reputation. Online reviews mostly swing positive, and the brand has extended its range to include other Manuka-based products like lozenges. What also resonates with me, and likely with other environmentally conscious consumers, is their Toitū Carbonreduce certification—clear evidence of their commitment to sustainability and proactive steps against climate change.

Packaging and Size

When it comes to presentation and versatility in quantity, Watson & Son Manuka honey satisfies diverse customer needs effectively. The honey is available in an array of jar sizes, appealing to various consumer preferences, with options including 250g, 500g, and the more generous 1kg. For those looking for convenience, especially when on the go, the honey also comes in handy snap packs of 5 grams each. The packaging itself is robust—a sleek, black plastic container that seals the freshness and quality of the honey, adorned with the MGO rating for clarity. Throughout my experience, I’ve never encountered issues with leakage or tampering, which speaks volumes about their attention to secure packaging. However, I did observe that some jars lacked the UMF rating, which could potentially lead to confusion or concern for new buyers who favor this metric.

Price and Value

Manuka honey, by nature, is a premium product and Watson & Son’s offerings are no exception. Their products are priced on the higher end compared to conventional honey, but they align well with the market rates for authentic Manuka honey, factoring in the benefits and purity they deliver. For example, a jar of MGS 5+ sells for about $42 for 8.8 oz, which may appear steep, but is justifiable by the quality and the health advantages it offers. While it’s undeniable that Watson & Son Manuka honey is a significant investment, the brand’s commitment to maintaining high standards of quality and purity make it a worthy buy, especially for those who do not compromise on health and wellness.

Pros & Cons

Overall Rating

As winter approaches each year, Watson & Son Manuka honey becomes a staple in my pantry, not just as a food item but as a trusted companion in my wellness regime. From soothing sore throats to enhancing my morning cup of tea, its benefits and reliability are clear. Despite the premium cost and the occasional absence of the UMF rating on its products, the overall value it provides offers ample compensation. If you are venturing into the world of Manuka honey, or are a seasoned enthusiast, Watson & Son offers authentic, high-quality honey that not only promises but delivers on its heritage and health benefits. For its remarkable blend of tradition, efficacy, and ethical production, Watson & Son Manuka Honey earns a solid 6.8 out of 10 stars, making it a highly recommended choice for those who prioritize quality and effectiveness in their dietary supplements.

Nutrition Information

• Calories: 32
• Total Fat: 0.09g
• Total Carb: 7.85g
• Total Sugars: 7.62g
• Sodium: 0.8mg
• Protein: 0.02g

*Serving size: 10g