Coles shocks customers with locked-up Manuka honey

Shoppers are shocked at Coles’ decision to lock away a popular breakfast condiment – but the supermarket giant has defended the call.

Coles has responded to criticism of its decision to place a popular breakfast condiment in security lockboxes at select stores.

One customer, who posts on TikTok as @TheOzLanderReturns, shared footage this week of two varieties of Capilano Manuka Honey, placed under lock and key on the shelf of his local store. The 340g bottles were being sold for $26, reduced from $30.

“So apparently, this is what we’ve come to as a country. The honey is in a protective container,” he said in the clip.

“So is this one [showing another bottle]. I only just noticed that. I mean, you charge $30 for a packet of honey, what do you expect?”

Coles has responded to criticism of its decision to place a popular breakfast condiment in security lockboxes at select stores. Picture: TikTok

‘This is what we’ve come to as a country. The honey is in a protective container.’ Picture: TikTok

More than 1000 people took to the comments, with many sharing in his shock.

“I don’t know what’s more ridiculous – it being in the safe thing or it being $26 on SPECIAL,” one commented.

A second wrote: “Next it will be dishwasher tablets, Coles have a variety ranging from $27 – $74. I only paid $300 for the machine.”

“Wow … just wow,” said a third.

Others pointed out that given how much the honey variety typically retails for, it wasn’t surprising to see it locked up. Picture: TikTok

Others, however, pointed out that given how much the honey variety typically retails for, it wasn’t that surprising.

“I mean it is $30+ manuka, basically medicinal level, that’s usually really expensive,” one user pointed out.

“Manuka honey has always been like this. It’s often [sold as] empty containers you swap at the [checkout for a full one], or they are behind the counter at the chemist. Not new,” another commented.

Manuka honey’s antibacterial properties are what sets it apart from traditional honey – popular for its antiviral, anti-inflammatory and antioxidant benefits.

A Coles spokesperson said ‘additional security’ on the item was in place at certain stores to deter theft. Picture: NCA NewsWire/Josie Hayden

In statement to news.com.au, a Coles spokesperson said that only certain stores have placed “additional security” on the item to deter theft.

“While the majority of our customers do the right thing, from time-to-time individual stores make decisions to put additional security measures in place for some high-value products, such as Manuka honey,” the spokesperson said.

“If a customer wishes to purchase the item, it’s as simple as getting the encasing removed at the checkout.”