Buying Manuka Honey in Qatar- What to Look For

1. Buying Manuka Honey in Doha, Qatar: What to Look For With growing awareness around the health benefits of Manuka honey, more people in Qatar are turning to this golden elixir for its natural antibacterial, healing, and immunity- boosting properties. Manuka honey has been valued for its healing properties for centuries, dating back to ancient times, where it was used by various cultures for traditional medicinal practices. But not all Manuka honey is created equal. If you’re planning to buy genuine, therapeutic-grade Manuka honey in Qatar — whether for wellness, skincare, or recovery — it’s important to know what to look for before making your purchase. This guide will help you identify the key quality indicators and avoid the common traps that many buyers fall into when shopping for Manuka honey. Manuka honey’s renowned antibacterial and antioxidant properties are derived from its pure, natural origin, contributing to its effectiveness and unique health benefits.

2. 1. Always Check the Certification: UMF or MGO The first sign of real, high-quality Manuka honey is certification. Genuine Manuka honey is graded by either the UMF (Unique Manuka Factor) or MGO (Methylglyoxal) rating systems, both originating from New Zealand. ● UMF measures the total antibacterial potency using a combined approach, assessing several chemical components, including MGO, DHA, and Leptosperin, to determine the honey's effectiveness. MGO specifically measures the concentration of the antibacterial component methylglyoxal — the compound responsible for much of Manuka’s healing power. ● Laboratory tests are used to verify the concentration of these components and ensure the honey meets the required scale for UMF or MGO certification. The higher the number on the scale, the stronger the honey’s bioactivity. For example, UMF 10+ is considered ideal for everyday immunity, digestion, or mild infections, while UMF 15+ or 20+ is used for therapeutic support like wound healing and severe skin conditions. At Honey Valley, all our Manuka honey products are sourced from Happy Valley, New Zealand, and are certified for their MGO or UMF content. All products are independently tested to confirm their MGO or UMF levels. Whether you need gentle support or high- strength therapeutic relief, you’ll find trusted options like:

3. ● ● RAW Manuka Honey UMF 10+ MGO 263+ RAW Manuka Honey UMF 15+ MGO 514+ 2. Avoid Vague Terms Like “Active” or “Bio” In Qatar’s market, you may come across honey labelled “Active,” “Bio-Active,” or “Natural Healing Honey.” These terms are not standardised and often lack scientific backing. Without a clearly stated UMF or MGO rating, there’s no way to verify the honey’s quality, purity, or effectiveness, and there is no evidence supporting the effectiveness of honey without proper certification. If the label doesn’t mention UMF or MGO — skip it. 3. Understand the Right Strength for Your Needs Not everyone needs the highest UMF rating. Lower strengths are perfect for daily wellness: ● ● ● MGO 50+ / UMF 5+: For general use, immune maintenance, and daily vitality. MGO 263+ / UMF 10+: For gut health, respiratory support, and skin benefits. MGO 514+ or MGO 829+ (UMF 15+/20+): For wound care, to treat wounds, burns, reduce inflammation, infections, and provide intensive therapeutic support.

4. Manuka honey may also help with oral health issues like periodontal disease, soothing coughs, and supporting wound healing by inhibiting microbial growth. While some people use Manuka honey for diabetes management, more research is needed to confirm its benefits for this condition. Our Raw Manuka Honey Multifloral MGO 50+ is an excellent choice if you’re new to Manuka and want to incorporate it into your wellness routine affordably. 4. Choose Raw and Unpasteurized Raw Manuka honey retains all the beneficial enzymes, antioxidants, and antibacterial compounds that can be lost through excessive heat or processing. In addition, raw Manuka honey preserves its antioxidant properties and strong antimicrobial activity, which are key to its health benefits. Always choose honey that is raw and unfiltered, like the entire Happy Valley range we stock. Heating honey above 40°C can reduce its medicinal potency, so raw is always best if you’re seeking real health benefits. Manuka honey's unique non-peroxide activity, which sets it apart from other honeys, is also preserved in raw, unpasteurized honey, further enhancing its potent health benefits. 5. Know the Source: New Zealand Origin Only Authentic Manuka honey comes exclusively from Leptospermum scoparium, the Manuka bush native to New Zealand. Manuka honey is produced by bees that pollinate the flowers of the Manuka bush, collecting nectar from these unique plants. The honey is sourced from specific hives in New Zealand, ensuring traceability and authenticity. Only honey produced and packed in the country can be considered genuine, and it must meet strict government standards set by the New Zealand government and its Ministry for Primary Industries. These standards certify that the honey is pure before it is sold and exported to other countries. If the jar does not indicate that it’s sourced and packed in New Zealand, it may not be genuine. Every jar at Honey Valley comes from Happy Valley, one of New Zealand’s most respected and certified Manuka honey producers, and meets all these requirements. 6. Consider Convenient Forms Like Honey Sticks For those who travel, work long hours, or want easy portion control, Manuka honey sticks are a game-changer. They offer all the benefits of raw Manuka honey in a mess-free, single- serve format. Great for kids too! Try: ● ● On-the-Go UMF 5+ MGO 83+ Manuka Honey Sticks Multifloral MGO 50+ Stick Packs

5. 7. Buy from Reputable Sellers in Qatar Many people unknowingly buy counterfeit or diluted Manuka honey from unofficial sellers or marketplaces. Buying from a trusted store with product traceability is key. At Honey Valley, we offer: ● Only certified and lab-tested products, independently tested for quality in the UK, including rigorous batch testing in York to verify MGO ratings Imported directly from Happy Valley, NZ, and recognised around the world for quality and authenticity Options for every need — from mild to therapeutic strength, including medical grade honey for those seeking advanced healing applications Honeys with a smooth texture, ensuring a uniform and premium experience ● ● ● Our Manuka honey undergoes strict quality control to minimise the presence of harmful bacteria, and the majority of our products meet or exceed global standards. Ongoing research and science support the health benefits of Manuka honey, and our commitment to excellence can lead to improved well-being. You can browse our full Manuka Honey Collection here and shop with confidence. Final Thoughts Buying Manuka honey in Qatar can feel overwhelming with so many options and misleading labels on the market. But by focusing on the right certifications, raw quality, and trusted origins, you can make an informed decision that brings real benefits to your health. Whether you're starting with a gentle daily dose or need high-strength support for more specific conditions, Honey Valley offers a curated selection of genuine Manuka honey that you can trust, straight from New Zealand to your table. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) Q1: Is Manuka honey available in Qatar authentic? Not always. Many local or online stores sell honey without proper certification. Always check for UMF or MGO ratings and buy from trusted sources like Honey Valley, where every product is lab-tested and imported from New Zealand. Q2: What’s the difference between UMF and MGO ratings? UMF is a trademarked quality standard that includes MGO, DHA, and Leptosperin. MGO specifically measures the antibacterial strength of Manuka honey. Both help determine the potency of the honey. Researchers continue to study the unique components and health

6. benefits of mānuka honey. The antibacterial effect of mānuka honey is due to its high antibacterial activity, which helps inhibit the growth and spread of bacteria. Q3: What UMF level should I choose? ● ● UMF 5+ to 10+: Great for daily wellness and immunity UMF 15+ and above: Better for therapeutic needs like skin healing or infections Q4: How do I take Manuka honey? You can take 1–2 teaspoons daily, straight or in warm water (not hot). For convenience, try Manuka Honey Stick Packs, perfect for travel or daily dosing. Q5: Is it safe for kids and pregnant women? Manuka honey is safe for children over 1 year old and generally considered safe during pregnancy. However, it’s always best to consult a doctor before use. Q6: Does Manuka honey need to be refrigerated in Qatar’s heat? No, it doesn’t need refrigeration. Just store it in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight or heat sources.