Warm Up
Do you like sweet food?
When did you last use honey?
Is honey expensive in your country?
Reading
New Zealand Loses Fight Over Manuka Honey Trademark
New Zealand has lost a legal battle over the trademark for "manuka honey" to Australia. Manuka honey is a special type of honey known for its health benefits and unique flavor. Both New Zealand and Australia produce manuka honey, but New Zealand has long claimed that it started there.
The argument started when New Zealand attempted to trademark the term "manuka honey" in several countries, including the UK and China. However, Australia objected, arguing that the term is generic and should not be controled by one country. After a long legal process, the UK Intellectual Property Office ruled in favor of Australia, allowing Australian producers to continue using the term "manuka honey" on their products.
This decision is bad news to New Zealand's honey industry, as it may affect their ability to sell manuka honey internationally. New Zealand producers are scared that people may become confused about where manuka honey comes from, leading to a fewer sales and less money.
Despite the setback, New Zealand officials remain committed to protecting the quality of manuka honey and ensuring that people keep getting real manuka honey products. They plan to appeal the decision and continue fighting for stricter rules about the labeling and marketing of manuka honey.
Reading Comprehension
Why did Australia disagree with New Zealand about "manuka honey"?
Who won the argument about "manuka honey"?
Why are New Zealand honey producers worried?
Discussion Questions
Have you ever heard of manuka honey?
What do you think makes manuka honey special?
Do you think it's fair for New Zealand to want to trademark manuka honey?
How do you feel about the UK Intellectual Property Office's decision?
Do you think people will be confused about where manuka honey comes from now?
Why do you think honey producers are worried about the decision?
Do you think other countries will want to trademark special foods from their country?
Do you think there should be clear rules for labeling honey?
How do you think this decision will affect honey sales?
What do you think will happen next in the manuka honey fight?
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