"Our science programme has been carefully planned and executed and as a result the definition is robust, sophisticated and accurate," Mr Wilson said.
"This is important because questions have been raised in overseas markets about the authenticity of some honey being sold as New Zealand manuka honey.
"It is important that overseas regulators have confidence in the assurances we give them about New Zealand manuka honey, and that consumers in those countries are confident they are getting the real deal. If not, our access to markets could be put a risk or we may lose the premium price which our bee products command overseas."
The definition uses 5 attributes (4 chemicals and a DNA marker) that, when present in honey at specified levels, provide clear evidence that the honey is New Zealand msnuka honey.
"It is important that a cross section of people from the apiculture industry, and the public, have their say on these proposals," Mr Wilson said.
Consultation on the proposals closes on May 23.
MPI is aiming to bring the new requirements into effect in late July.
