Tasmanian honey producers say the battle over Manuka honey is getting serious.

They're claiming to have evidence of the honey's production dating back to 1884 - eight years prior to it starting in New Zealand.

Things are becoming bitter now the UK has given New Zealand honey a certification mark, which gives consumers a guarantee of quality.

Tasmanian Beekeepers Association president Lindsay Bourke told Chris Lynch they're gearing up for a legal battle.

"Everybody knows that it is not true, it doesn't just come from New Zealand, it comes from Australia as well.

"Now it's getting serious, we're a little bit annoyed by this. Quite frankly, we're disappointed by it."

LISTEN ABOVE AS LINDSAY BOURKE SPEAKS WITH CHRIS LYNCH