*****Update 11/17/10****** When I created this review, the product being sold was HNZ Honey New Zealand Active 20+ honey. This product listing has been changed to an unknown brand.*****
This quote is taken from the HNZ website Q & A regarding the difference between "UMF" and "ACTIVE" Manuka. I don't know who posted the "Product Description" for this product, but it is wrong and falsely leading consumers to purchase something they think is UMF. I am not discrediting the Active 20+ Manuka honey from HNZ. It may be just as healthy as UMF 20+. I have the Active 30+ and it tastes amazing, like caramel. In fact, the Active honey HNZ sells is the best honey I have ever tasted.
""What is the difference between `UMF' & `Active' Manuka Honey?
Not all Manuka honey has UMF (Non peroxide) activity and we differentiate this by using the names UMF Manuka and Active Manuka Honey.
UMF Manuka Honey guarantees a Non Peroxide activity that is based on the UMF testing regime initiated by Prof. Molan. This in turn is measured against a standard Phenol (antiseptic/anti bacterial) solution to gauge the relative strength of the Non Peroxide activity against Phenol. So, UMF 20+ guarantees antibacterial Non Peroxide Activity (UMF) level of 20+.
For example, Honey New Zealand's Active 20+ honey guarantees honey's total antibacterial activity level of 20+. This Total Activity is mostly from the Hydrogen Peroxide activity of honey (as opposed to the Non Peroxide Activity of UMF Honey).
Both Total (Active) and Non Peroxide (UMF) activities are tested by certified independent lab in New Zealand.
In regards to health benefits, UMF is more stable over time, does not break down with heat, light or body enzymes and may even grow in strength over time.""