Frequently asked questions

What is Manuka Honey?

Manuka Honey is made by bees from the nectar produced by the Manuka bush (Leptospermum Scoparium), a relative of the tea tree, which grows exclusively in New Zealand.

What does Active mean?

This refers to the antibacterial activity in honey. The Manuka bush has antibacterial properties which are also found in the honey produced from the bush. The strength of this activity can be measured by comparing its capacity to fight bacteria with that of a standard antibacterial agent, such as phenol.

Is 15+ better than 10+?

15+ honey has stronger antibacterial activity than 10+: the numbers mean that the 15+ honey can quell the same amount of bacteria as phenol that has been diluted to 15% phenol, 85% water. Clinical trials show that Manuka Honey below 8+ has negligible therapeutic value, so it is best to buy honey with values above 10+.

How should I store honey?

Keep it sealed, at normal room temperature. It doesn't need to go into the fridge.

How long does it keep?

When stored correctly, honey will last for a long time. Our honey is typically dated at the time of jarring with 3 years BBE date, though if stored as recommended above it should last for considerably longer.

Why does Manuka Honey sometimes have granules in it?

Honey is essentially sugars mixed with a little water and is inherently dry. Granularised honey is simply honey which has lost a little moisture. Gently reheating it by standing the honey jar in hot water will render it runny once more. When stored properly, unprocessed or raw honey like Green Bay Harvest Manuka Honey appears to resist crystallization longer than processed honey.

Is Manuka Honey runny or set?

Green Bay Harvest Manuka Honey is runny: however, if it starts to set and you prefer it runny, you can reheat it gently without damaging its nutrients or antibacterial properties (see above).

Why is Manuka so expensive?

The Manuka bush is indigenous to New Zealand (though some try to cultivate it elsewhere), meaning Manuka honey is only produced in any volume there. The international recognition of Manuka Honey's healing properties has given rise to incredible demand, far outstripping the supply which leads to a premium price.

The availability is further diminished as not all Manuka Honey is active, and those which are vary significantly in strength. As we only buy raw and highly active Manuka, we pay a premium to ensure we get the very best honey available.

Can I put Manuka Honey on cuts and grazes?

Manuka Honey can be used for treating minor wounds, cuts and grazes. Spreading the honey on a waterproof dressing is a good way to apply it: the dressing should be changed at least daily. The antibacterial properties are so effective that honey is used in hospital treatments: it also helps to replenish healthy tissue at the site of a wound.

How should I store Manuka Honey Lozenges?

Store Honey Lozenges flat in a cool, dry place at under 25C or refrigerate. If our lozenges overheat, freeze them to -5C to harden.

How much is postage?

Postage can be calculated through our shopping basket facility.

Are Green Bay products suitable for diabetics?

We strongly recommend that customers who have diabetes consult a medical professional before taking any Green Bay products specifically to alleviate their symptoms.

Are Green Bay products suitable for children and babies?

Children under 1 year should not eat honey.

Do Green Bay foods support good oral health?

Emerging studies of the antibacterial properties of Manuka Honey have shown that it can help to quell gum inflammation and even tooth decay.

Some people find Manuka Honey can also bring relief from the soreness of mouth ulcers.

What is Green Bay Harvests returns policy?

Damaged/Wrong Items Delivered

In the unlikely event that your order arrives damaged, is not up to your high standards or we have sent you the wrong product, you should let us know as soon as possible. We will usually ask you to return the items to our warehouse, for which we will refund you the cost. We recommend you obtain a proof of posting and keep the receipt as we may ask to see it. Replacement products will be sent out as soon as we receive your return.

Returns

If you change your mind for any reason then you have 7 days from the date of delivery to return any part of your order. Returns must be unopened and in as new condition.