Dr Megan Grainger is securing sweet success for our multi-million dollar manuka honey industry.
As a university student Dr Grainger isolated and identified MGO, the compound behind the Unique Manuka Factor (UMF) which indicates the honey’s special qualities. Dr Grainger went on to develop the first model to predict MGO concentration from freshly harvested honey, a tool now used heavily by apiarists. Her work has also refined understanding of a key test used to detect adulteration of honey and she is focused on defining a signature ‘fingerprint’ for New Zealand manuka honey; exploring the cause of an enzyme reaction which is used as an indicator of poorly stored honey; and examining the cumulative impact of toxins on bee health.
Dr Megan Grainger
All abuzz about honey
Hamilton City Council Emerging Scientist Award
Dr Megan Grainger is securing sweet success for our multi-million dollar manuka honey industry.
As a university student Dr Grainger isolated and identified MGO, the compound behind the Unique Manuka Factor (UMF) which indicates the honey’s special qualities. Dr Grainger went on to develop the first model to predict MGO concentration from freshly harvested honey, a tool now used heavily by apiarists. Her work has also refined understanding of a key test used to detect adulteration of honey and she is focused on defining a signature ‘fingerprint’ for New Zealand manuka honey; exploring the cause of an enzyme reaction which is used as an indicator of poorly stored honey; and examining the cumulative impact of toxins on bee health.