3-IN-1 Honey Suite Testing

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The 3-In-1 Mānuka Honey Suite indicates the current and potential value of mānuka honey. This test assesses quality, authenticity, and freshness of mānuka honey combining three key chemical markers into a single analysis.

What Does the 3-IN-1 Mānuka Honey Test Tell You About Your Honey?

This suite measures dihydroxyacetone (DHA), Methylglyoxal (MG/MGO), Hydroxymethylfurfural (HMF). This test is widely used by beekeepers, packers, and exporters to ensure their mānuka honey meets market and regulatory expectations.

  • MGO is the primary compound responsible for mānuka honey’s antibacterial activity.
  • DHA is the precursor to MGO found in the nectar of the mānuka flower.
  • HMF is a marker of honey freshness and heat exposure.

The suite will also calculate non-peroxide activity (NPA) from the results and provide you with a forecast report to show you how these analytes will change over time at varying storage temperatures. This is included in the 3-in-1 Suite at no extra cost and results are returned at the same time. 

What is Non-Peroxide Activity(NPA)?

NPA (Non-Peroxide Activity) measures the antibacterial power of mānuka honey that comes from compounds other than hydrogen peroxide, which is the main antibacterial agent in most other honeys. This value is used to grade mānuka honey based on its unique antibacterial strength.

What is the Turnaround Time for the 3-IN-1 Mānuka Honey Suite testing?

Results for routine testing are available the next working day and the same working day for urgent testing from receipt of sample. 

Speak to the team to learn more  Read the technical note  Download the honey testing brochure

Technical Notes

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Honey Testing Brochure

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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

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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.

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