Dear Ministry for Primary Industries,
Manuka Science for new Manuka Standards
1)Are the genetics based on the nectar or the pollen from the manuka flower
2) If the genetics are from the either the nectar or pollen of the flower of the manuka tree, have the Leptospermum Scoparium plants from different areas of the country been compared to ensure that the genetic markers that will be used are common to all areas. As you are aware Landcare Research have stated that each area have different genetics
3) If the genetic markers are going to be used as a country of origin statement, are the genetics tests able to be distinguish between Australian and New Zealand Leptosperum Scoparium species.
4) Can the chemical tests distinguish between manuka and kanuka honey.
5) If the DNA test measures Pollen that has fallen into nectar on the flower, and/or pollen specifically targeted as a protein source by the bees, has research been done to determine how consistent the percent of manuka pollen collected in a hive is relative to the percent of manuka nectar?
6) Will the amount of pollen be wholly or mainly from Manuka for a honey that passes the manuka pollen DNA test?
7) Will there be a certificate issued by MPI for export be for either Monofloral manuka or multifloral manuka or both

Yours faithfully,

John Hill