Comvita UMF 20+ Manuka Honey Review

Great for the winter

Comvita is the largest manufacturer of premium UMF Manuka Honey from New Zealand and is a well-known brand worldwide. They source their honey from over the 30,000 hives across New Zealand and they are able to track honey from the hive right through to the store where it is sold.  We have recently reviewed the Comvita UMF 5+ Mauka Honey and thought we should take a look at the priciest honey in the Comvita range – UMF 20+ Manuka Honey.

Due to limited supply this product is often out of stock but we were lucky enough to get our hands on a jar. Since 1981 Manuka Honey has been quickly gaining popularity as a health product following interesting research from Dr Peter Molan at the University of Waikato in New Zealand.  Here, they discovered the antibacterial properties of Manuka Honey that later inspired the development of a rating scale called UMF (Unique Manuka Factor). The UMF rating provides consumers with a guide to the potency of the product and it is a good idea to use this if you are new to Manuka Honey. However, UMF is not the be all and end all and we recommend doing your own research behind the brand. Understand where they source their honey, their production methods and testing techniques. If you are stuck, refer to our growing library of reviews to help you decide.

Comvita have adopted and pioneered the UMF rating system and this honey in particular is at the top end of the scale and with it comes the price point. The higher the honey scores on the scale the greater the potency and potential health benefits. We take a further look to determine if it is worth paying extra for.

Taste

Manuka Honey is an acquired taste for some. This particular honey has an organic, smooth and slightly floral taste. Even though it’s higher in UMF which gives it a subtle medicinal flavour it is still rich, sweet and can be used everyday (in moderation).

Texture

The product is thick and is most like caramel in texture and the way it pours.  It is truly luxurious and works well in hot drink (although please note that putting manuka honey in a hot drink will destroy the naturally occurring hydrogen peroxide), in smoothies, as a spread or even straight from the spoon.

Price

The price of this product is NZD $152.60 for a 250g jar which is on the high end of the scale but Comvita are one of New Zealand’s most trusted brands whose safety and quality standards are second to none. We have been using this during the winter season in New Zealand and so far we have managed to remain healthy and cold free. It is difficult to say that consuming this product daily has kept the colds away but we believe it has certainly helped. So is it worth the money? We are a little torn on this one but if it means getting through the winter and avoiding illness in a natural way then it is worth it.  If you want to invest in a UMF 20+ Manuka Honey and the potential health benefits that come with it then Comvita is definitely a trustworthy brand that offers authentic, genuine Manuka Honey.

Winter Wellness Remedy

Try this delicious smoothie full of vitamin E and magnesium to ward off winter illnesses and boost your immunity.

• 1 cup almond milk
• 1 tablespoon Manuka Honey
• 1 banana
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Combine all ingredients in a blender, process until smooth and then enjoy immediately.