The UMF (Unique Manuka Factor that is independently certified by the UMF Honey Association to ensure quality and authenticity) is a reference to the antibacterial quality of the honey, specifically the content of the medicinal trilogy leptosperin, dihdroxyacetone and methylglyoxl. The higher the rating, the better in terms of nutritional benefits. And it doesn’t get much higher that Manuka UMF 20+. Intense, rich and deeply complex, this is Tahi’s tangiest honey, their magnum opus if you will. For something so sweet, its remarkably savoury, and can be consumed straight from the spoon, spread onto bread, stirred into smoothies and juices, or incorporated into your beauty regime. Honey has been used as a natural remedy to heal wounds, clear skin, soothe sore throats, improve digestion, boost energy and promote health and wellness for thousands of years. Manuka honey takes this to the next level, which is why Marie Claire call it “the ultimate superfood”. Scientifically proven to contain antibacterial and antimicrobial properties, it contains over 200 active compounds not found in most honeys. Tahi produces its award-winning, natural and eco-friendly honey on a remote wetland sanctuary on New Zealand’s North Island. Its bees feed freely on the nectar of wild flowers, the honey then receives minimal treatment (no overheating, no pasteurising, nothing added) to retain its high pollen content – so highly prized for its health and beauty benefits. Tahi has planted thousands of trees, restored 30 hectares of wetlands, offset their carbon footprint and educated local communities. Their activities have seen the number of bird species on their land rise from 14 to 70. Its hives are in the wild and are not used for commercial pollination, meaning the bees are not constantly being moved around, they receive multiple food sources and are less exposed to pesticides and fungicides. And finally, where most honey producers replace the honey they take from the hive with a sugar solution that contains none of the nutrients that bees need to protect their immune system, Tahi leave their bees with enough of their own honey to ensure their healthy survival over the winter months.