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3. Why was the discovery of methylglyoxal in manuka honey was critical for the growth of the New Zealand industry?

  • Writer: Kerry Paul
    Kerry Paul
  • Nov 9, 2025
  • 1 min read

Updated: Nov 21, 2025


The discovery of naturally-occurring methylglyoxal (MGO) in manuka honey was a pivotal moment for the product. This breakthrough provided consumers with a clear and logical explanation for why manuka honey is special, justifying its substantial price premium over other honeys. The difference in MGO levels in Manuka honey explains the price differential since the higher the concentration the higher the price.


The impact on global sales of New Zealand manuka honey was immediate. From a static sales level of USD 25 million in 2005 and USD 26 million in 2006, sales surged to USD 40 million in 2007. This growth continued to accelerate each year, reaching USD 325 million by 2020 (Source: Ministry of Primary Industries Export Statistics). Manuka honey accounted for the overwhelming majority of this growth in sales.


Note: Manuka honey export sales began in the mid-1990s, thanks to the efforts of Professor Peter Molan. Initially, these exports formed only a minor part of the overall honey sales, which were mainly composed of 300kg drums of various honey varieties.


New Zealand Export Honey Sales ($USD) FOB Export 2000 to 2010
New Zealand Export Honey Sales ($USD) FOB Export 2000 to 2010


What is unique about manuka honey?

Kerry Paul Business man and blogger
Kerry Paul – Stepping Out of Your Bubble Author
​

Hi, I'm Kerry. I enjoy challenging people by asking questions and presenting different views to encourage critical thinking. My 45-year career has always had a global focus, building successful relationships in over 50 countries. I am empathetic to diverse views, irrespective of gender, ethnicity, religion, culture, or socio-economic status. Join me on a captivating journey as we explore how India shaped the world over two thousand years ago, potentially leading to the first settlement of New Zealand. This blog series aims to expand readers' awareness and knowledge of how people may have come to New Zealand in pre-Polynesian times. Given the time constraints many readers face, I am providing a platform for them to consider these intriguing possibilities in easy-to-read blog posts.

 

Who were the first people to settle in New Zealand? How did India possibly contribute to any development, given its major role over 2000 years ago in some of New Zealand’s closest neighbours? These questions will guide our exploration and open up a rich dialogue about the historical connections and cultural exchanges that may have shaped New Zealand's early settlements.

 

I'd be more than happy to discuss with readers of my blog about India, its history as well as New Zealand and the suggested origins of its first settlers. 

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