Honey Testing

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Trusted since 1984 and proudly based in New Zealand, Hill Labs is your local partner for Mānuka and other honey testing. We offer an extensive range of tests for honey and bee products, allowing you to produce, sell and export your product with ease.

We know how important production and customer deadlines are and we are committed to supporting New Zealand’s honey industry. We use the latest methodology to provide industry leading turnaround times and a seamless experience with a team dedicated to supporting you in navigating complex testing requirements. 

Manuka 5 Attributes

Honey being labelled and exported as manuka honey from New Zealand, by law, must be analysed for four chemical markers and one DNA marker.

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UMF® Release Certificate

For members of the Unique Manuka Factor Honey Association (UMFHA) that require a UMF® Release Certificate.

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3-IN-1 Honey Suite

A combination of three of our most popular manuka honey tests (MGO, DHA & HMF) all done as one analysis using Ultra Performance Liquid Chromatography (UPLC).

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Leptosperin in Manuka Honey

Leptosperin is a natural product in manuka (Leptospermum scoparium) honey and is required with the 3 in 1 Honey Suite and Manuka 5 Attributes for a UMF® certificate.

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Tutin

Tutin is a toxic compound that may be present in honey that has been produced where tutu plants are present. Testing for Tutin in honey is regulated under an Ministry of Primary Industries (MPI) standard.

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American Foulbrood (AFB)

American foulbrood (AFB) is a fatal bacterial disease of honey bee brood caused by the spore forming bacterium Paenibacillus larvae.

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C4 Sugar AOAC and C4 Screening

The C4 sugar test is a widely used method for detecting this type of sugar adulteration and can be performed as either a C4 AOAC Test or a C4 Screening Test

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Glyphosate

Glyphosate is a commonly used herbicide. Glyphosate testing in honey is now a requirement for any producer exporting to Japan and Europe. 

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Industry Leading Turnaround Times

At Hill Labs, we understand that timely results are crucial for informed decision-making. Our standard turnaround times vary depending on the type of test and sample, but we are committed to delivering accurate results as quickly as possible. 

Routine Testing is processed promptly when received in the lab, with results typically available within a standard timeframe depending on the test type. 

Urgent Service is available for faster processing with results for most test types delivered the same or next working day. 

We’re proud to hold on-time turnaround rate of nearly 100%, a testament to our team’s commitment to you to provide a consistent, high-quality service. Speak to the team for more information and to discuss your options.

Honey Testing with mylab

Simplify your honey testing process with mylab - our seamless, all-in-one online portal. Our intuitive platform to provides you with everything you need to manage your honey testing requirements, all in just a few clicks. Save time, reduce hassle, and boost efficiency and productivity. You can use mylab to submit samples, view results, create custom 3in1 forecasts and order supplies. 

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Helpful links

Our team of testing experts has meticulously crafted these documents to offer recommendations tailored to your testing requirements.

Technical Notes

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Analysis Request Forms

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Honey Testing Brochure

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Latest Stories

Embracing Curiosity and Change: Pramit's Career Journey in Honey Testing

With a background in biomedical and science studies, Pramit Patel leads a team dedicated to ensuring the quality and authenticity of New Zealand honey. His journey into the field was unexpected but driven by curiosity and a passion for continuous improvement, it’s become a rewarding career.
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  22 Jul 2025

Effluent Testing: A Smart Investment for Sustainable Farming – The Hunt Farm Story

In the pastures of Hunt Farm, a quiet revolution is taking place. One that blends environmental stewardship with economic savvy.
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  14 Jul 2025

Staff Profile: Ester Woollaston - Championing Food Safety and Team Success

With nearly 10 years of experience, Section Manager for Water Microbiology, Ester Woollaston is passionate about public health and leads a busy lab. Learn more about Ester and her time at Hill Labs.
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  30 Jun 2025

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What our customers have to say

"We've always found them to be responsive in getting results back and giving advice on problems we might be facing."

Andrew Hutchinson, Technical Manager, Turners & Growers

"We strongly recommend Hill Labs as a sound testing service provider to the honey industry."

Nick Walker, Technical Manager, Egmont Honey

"Their sample registration system has made things simple and seamless - collect, scan and send!"

Mathew Bannister, Compliance Manager, First Fresh New Zealand

Accreditations

As a New Zealand accredited laboratory by International Accreditation New Zealand (IANZ), Hill Labs' commitment to quality is tantamount to our overall operating philosophy. We pride ourselves on the quality of our work.

View our full accreditations