Research partnership established to examine the effects of Mānuka honey on health

NZX-listed natural health products company, Comvita, the Riddet Institute, have formed a new partnership to scientifically research Comvita honey bioactives and their impact on human health. Two joint projects have started in recent months investigating different bioactive properties of honey, advancing our scientific knowledge of one of New Zealand’s key primary industry exports.

Within one of these projects the Riddet Institute will also collaborate with Distinguished Professor Dame Margaret Brimble and her team at the University of Auckland.  A major objective of this research project is to provide further evidence to help inform human clinical studies.

Comvita Head of Research Jackie Evans, PhD, says “We are delighted to be partnering with the food and nutrition science experts at the Riddet Institute on this new programme of research as we continue the pioneering work that has placed us as leaders within our industry and the science of Mānuka honey.”

Riddet Institute Director, Distinguished Professor Harjinder Singh, sees the great potential of this partnership.  “This collaboration adds to the extensive research programme within the Centre of Research Excellence (CoRE), leveraging our significant expertise across several disciplines. The role of the Institute is to deliver world class scientific research and fundamental understanding that New Zealand’s food industries can utilize for innovation to help grow our high value food exports.”

“Mānuka honey is an iconic New Zealand food, with unique characteristics that warrant further detailed investigation. Our work with Comvita will examine honey in new ways, ultimately helping to inform consumers and supporting them in their food choices”, says Professor Singh.

This new partnership adds to the Riddet Institute’s established innovative research programmes with key food industry collaborators.  This strategic relationship also includes internships, whereby a Riddet Institute postgraduate student gains valuable real-life work experience at Comvita, whilst helping to strengthen their in‑house R&D capability.

 

Hear Jackie Evans, Comvita Head of Research, talking about the partnership on Radio New Zealand (5 May Midday Rural News)

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