While the average shopper might feel stung by high prices, at Harrods, affluent consumers are swarming to purchase one of the world's rarest honeys, which carries a staggering £2,000 price tag. This follows a trend set two years ago when an Australian honey sold for £750 at the London luxury department store. The latest offering, from New Zealand producer Manuka South, has generated significant buzz due to its exceptional purity and exclusivity.
What Makes This Honey So Special?
The honey's uniqueness stems from its production process. Bees feast almost exclusively on native manuka bushes in remote areas of New Zealand's South Island, resulting in an unusually pure product. Harvesting occurs only when environmental conditions are perfect, an event that happens 'once every few years,' according to the manufacturer. After being matured for 1,400 days, it undergoes rigorous testing to ensure quality and potency before sale.
Limited Availability and Luxurious Packaging
Officially named Limited Reserve UMP 35+ MGO 2190, this honey is available in limited quantities, making it highly prized among connoisseurs. It is presented in an ornate case featuring a handcrafted American black walnut exterior, Italian leather lining, and 18-carat antique gold detailing, aligning with Harrods' upscale clientele.
High Demand and Health Benefits
Despite the steep cost, demand has been high, particularly among Middle Eastern shoppers, according to sources. Sarina Mughal, Harrods' head pharmacist, noted, 'It's been one of our best-selling honeys. We've had weeks where we've sold between six and ten jars, and these are all repeat customers.' The honey is sold in the Harrods pharmacy due to the reputed health benefits of manuka, which has been used for healing for thousands of years, even in NHS wound dressings.
Expert Insights on Quality
Honey sommelier Helen Rogers of the Honey Guild of the United Kingdom explained that this product contains 'extreme' levels of MGO (methylglyoxal), a key antibacterial compound. 'Anything above 500 MGO is classed as medical grade, and this is 2190,' she said. Manuka South highlights the honey's versatility, boasting a flavour that complements both sweet and savoury dishes, suggesting it can be enjoyed straight from the spoon or drizzled over foods.
A Taste Test with a Twist
YouTuber Carmie Sellitto, known for reviewing luxury food items, put this claim to the test last month by drizzling the £2,000 honey on a £1.45 Greggs sausage roll. He described the honey as tasting 'a bit like grass' but found the combination surprisingly effective, calling it 'the most expensive sausage roll in the world.' Sellitto rated the honey 'ten out of ten,' though he joked he might have been convincing himself due to the high cost.
Debate Over Superiority
Despite its acclaim, Ms Rogers expressed skepticism about manuka honey's superiority over UK honey when ingested, noting, 'It definitely is superior on wounds... Most people probably wouldn't enjoy it. It's got quite a medicinal flavour.' This adds a layer of debate to the product's allure, contrasting its luxury status with practical culinary preferences.
