1. What does this mean for Manuka Honey?
We have referenced first principles, i.e. honey is derived from nectar
“Honey is the natural sweet substance produced by honey bees from the nectar of plants” – Codex Alimentarius
We have adopted robust, best practice science and best fit analytical methodologies and technologies: “all roads lead to Rome”
We have taken a sound statistical approach based on balance of probabilities rather than purity to classify honey.
Consumers will be able to purchase, confident that the honey is in fact Manuka Honey
We can prove it is authentic and natural, as nature intended
Genuine Manuka Honey will be recognized and appreciated around the world, based on it’s own unique attributes and benefits
The future of Manuka Honey as one of New Zealand iconic exports is protected
Potential for increased investment to develop the Manuka estate and production capability across New Zealand

2. What does this mean for the UMFHA?
That the equity and value in our quality trademark is protected and enhanced
That our  members & licencees will have the best platform available from which to access and grow their business in international markets
That the UMF quality trademark will be a building block in the New Zealand Inc. positioning and value proposition
That our “coalition of the willing” within the New Zealand Manuka industry can benefit from the optimal mix of collaboration and constructive competition

3. The UMF Release Document: Simple Overview

4. Rationale
The UMF quality trademark is supported by a set of standards that underpin the mark (or, if not adhered to, threaten the integrity of the mark)
These are:
Is it Manuka? Yes: “This is Manuka”
HMF
Shelf life
C4 Sugar (to be added)
Not adulterated (to be added)
Province/regionality (future?)

5. Process
1. The licence holder sends in representative samples for testing to approved laboratories with the following information:
Batch number
Affirmation of approved label
Proposed use by date
Volume (#bottles, bottle volume)
Request for a UMF release certificate
2. The laboratory applies the various tests to the sample
3. The laboratory lodges the test results into a website that produces the UMF Release document
4. Timeframe – this will be available by Wednesday the 31st of August, and the new markers will roll out as soon as they are available. Licencees will receive more comprehensive information about this in the coming weeks.