Trust & transparency
Our certifications
Premium honey isn't a claim, it's a paper trail. Here are the independent standards we hold ourselves to, audited by the bodies that wrote them.
Authenticity and standard
UMF - Unique Manuka Factor
UMF stands for Unique Manuka Factor. It's the certification system run by the UMF Honey Association (UMFHA), an independent New Zealand body founded in 1998 by beekeepers who wanted a science-based standard for Manuka.
Every certified batch is tested in independent labs against four markers: MGO (methylglyoxal) for concentration, Leptosperin to distinguish genuine Manuka from substitutes, DHA (dihydroxyacetone), which converts to MGO over time and shows the honey will hold its rating through its shelf life, and HMF (hydroxymethylfurfural), which indicates whether the honey has been overheated or aged.
To carry the UMF mark, members commit to standards that go beyond New Zealand law: full batch traceability, accredited lab testing, and regular audits by the UMFHA. The UMF Honey Association states its members represent around 70% of all exported retail packs of New Zealand Manuka honey. Cosana holds UMF License No. 3178.
Food safety
BRCGS - Brand Reputation Compliance Global Standards
BRCGS is the global benchmark for food safety, packaging, storage, and distribution. Our New Zealand facility is BRCGS A certified, audited by an independent third party against the BRCGS standard.
Quality management
ISO 9001 - International Organization for Standardization
ISO 9001 is the international standard for quality management systems. Independent third-party auditors verify our processes, documentation, and continuous improvement against globally recognised criteria.
US regulatory standard
FDA - Food & Drug Administration
Our facility is FDA-registered, meeting US regulatory standards for food production, quality control, and traceability. Subject to ongoing inspection and full lifecycle documentation.
GMO-free verified
The Non-GMO Project
Independent third-party verification that our honey is free of genetically modified organisms. Covers sourcing, testing, and segregation across the entire supply chain.
Halal certified
FIANZ Halal
Certified by the Federation of Islamic Associations of New Zealand. Verified compliance with Islamic dietary standards across sourcing, processing, and packaging.
Made in New Zealand
The New Zealand FernMark Licence
Run by New Zealand Trade and Enterprise, the FernMark licence is granted only to genuinely New Zealand-made goods that meet quality and origin standards. It's the country's official trust mark.
Kosher certified
Kosher Kiwi
Certified by Kosher Kiwi, a kosher certification authority based in New Zealand. Verified rabbinical compliance with Jewish dietary standards across sourcing, processing, and packaging.