Media Release
14 March 2008
Comvita assures customers of UMF® quality
Comvita strongly supports recent action taken by the Active Manuka Honey Association (AMHA) to protect the UMF® (Unique
Manuka Factor) brand and customers around the globe who use UMF® honey products.
This follows the announcement that a search warrant has been executed by police as part of an investigation into the
alleged fraudulent activity by a senior employee of a honey company licensed to sell UMF® (Unique Manuka Factor™) honey
and honey products.
Brett Hewlett, Comvita CEO says, “As the largest manufacturer and exporter of Manuka honey, we endorse AMHA’s strong
action to preserve the integrity of the UMF® brand in New Zealand; and also the wider action taken in key offshore
markets. The credibility of the brand is of paramount importance, not only to our business but to the New Zealand
beekeeping industry as a whole.”
UMF® is a special antibacterial activity not found in other honeys, making UMF® Manuka Honey one of the most sought
after honeys in the world. It is taken internally to assist the digestive function and on wounds to support natural
healing and immune response. Licensed users of the UMF® brand are required to meet set criteria which include regular
monitoring and auditing in order to ensure premium quality.
“All Comvita UMF® honey products are independently tested and certified to have the special UMF antibacterial property
level as indicated on the label. Very high quality standards have been set” says Hewlett.
Comvita’s Active UMF®15+ Manuka honey was named “Best Manuka” in the latest issue of the BBC’s Good Food Magazine; the
UK publication tested over 40 honeys to find the best.
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