Is Manuka Honey Safe? What You Need to Know
Safety Score
Concern Level: low
Manuka Honey is generally considered safe for use in household and personal care products.
What Is Manuka Honey?
A honey from New Zealand with unique antibacterial properties from methylglyoxal (MGO). Used in wound care and skin treatment.
Commonly found in: wound care, face masks, acne treatment, lip products
Safety Research & Evidence
A honey from New Zealand with unique antibacterial properties from methylglyoxal (MGO). Used in wound care and skin treatment.
Regulatory status: Medical-grade manuka approved by FDA for wound care; cosmetic use unrestricted
Health Concerns
No significant health concerns have been identified.
Vulnerable Populations
Extra caution recommended for: infants under 1 (botulism risk if ingested)
Safer Alternatives
| Alternative | Safety Score |
|---|---|
| Raw Honey | 9/10 |
How to Avoid Manuka Honey
- Read ingredient labels carefully for "Manuka Honey" or its chemical synonyms
- Choose products with third-party certifications (EWG Verified, Made Safe)
- Consider alternatives like Raw Honey
- Check the EWG Skin Deep database for product ratings
- Look for "Manuka Honey-free" labels on product packaging
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Manuka Honey safe for babies?
No, we recommend avoiding Manuka Honey in products used on or around babies due to their developing systems.
What are the safest alternatives to Manuka Honey?
Safer alternatives include Raw Honey (safety score: 9/10).
Is Manuka Honey banned in other countries?
Regulatory status: Medical-grade manuka approved by FDA for wound care; cosmetic use unrestricted
How do I know if my product contains Manuka Honey?
Check the full ingredient list on the product label. Manuka Honey may also appear under different chemical names. Using apps like EWG Healthy Living or Think Dirty can help identify it.
Related Safety Guides
References
- Molan PC et al. (2006). Manuka honey: antibacterial properties and wound healing PMID: 20690760