Mānuka Honey UMF™ and MGO Ratings Compared

Easily convert MGO to UMF - and vice versa - with our guide to the Mānuka honey ratings systems

When shopping for Mānuka honey, you'll often see two main grading systems: UMF™ (Unique Mānuka Factor) and MGO (methylglyoxal). Both help consumers identify authentic Mānuka honey, but they focus on different elements.

The UMF™ rating offers an all-around quality assurance approach, while the Mānuka honey MGO rating reflects the concentration of a single compound responsible for its non-peroxide antibacterial activity.

Understanding how to compare these systems is essential for making informed decisions about this New Zealand treasure. Find our guide to MGO and UMF™—including a handy Mānuka honey MGO to UMF conversion table—below.

What is the difference between UMF™ and MGO?

Is UMF™ and MGO the same thing? Well, not quite.

Mānuka honey MGO ratings reflect the amount of methylglyoxal (MGO) in milligrams per kilogram. MGO is a powerful compound responsible for Mānuka honey's non-peroxide activity, which contributes to its antibacterial properties.

By contrast, the Mānuka honey UMF™ rating (Unique Mānuka Factor) is a more comprehensive grading system. It measures MGO alongside three other chemical markers that validate authenticity, freshness, and shelf stability.

This four-factor approach—unique to the UMF standard—is what makes it the only globally recognised, independently verified quality system for Mānuka honey.

Learn more about the difference between MGO and UMF™ in our full guide.

Why the four-factor UMF™ test matters

The UMF™ test measures more than just antibacterial strength. It validates the complete integrity of Mānuka honey using four naturally occurring compounds:

1. MGO

MGO (methylglyoxal) delivers Mānuka honey’s potent non-peroxide activity. Higher levels mean more substantial antibacterial effects.

2. Leptosperin

Found only in Mānuka nectar, leptosperin confirms the honey is derived from genuine Mānuka flowers. It also has anti-inflammatory benefits.

3. DHA

DHA (dihydroxyacetone) naturally converts to MGO over time. A higher DHA content means MGO levels are more likely to remain stable through the honey’s shelf life.

4. HMF

HMF levels rise when honey is overheated or stored for an extended period. Low HMF means the honey is raw, fresh, and retains its full nutritional value.

Together, these authenticity markers prove that UMF-certified Mānuka honey is unadulterated and delivers the expected health benefits, ensuring you receive a truly unique and trustworthy product.

Is UMF™ better than MGO?

The answer depends on what you’re looking for.

Methylglyoxal gives a straightforward measurement of antibacterial strength.

UMF™ includes MGO, but goes further, measuring additional compounds that guarantee authenticity and freshness. With added measures of leptosperin, DHA, and HMF, the UMF™ Honey Association ensures that UMF™-certified Mānuka honey is not only potent but also authentic to the label. Each batch is independently tested in accredited labs, both in New Zealand and internationally.

This means UMF™ Mānuka honey is traceable, pure, and stored in optimal conditions to preserve its bioactive benefits.

How do I convert Mānuka Honey UMF™ to MGO?

While the systems are not perfectly interchangeable, researchers have established general equivalents to help with product comparisons.

Below is a Mānuka honey MGO vs UMF™ table to help you identify the equivalent UMF™ rating based on potency.

Note: These are minimum MGO levels. The actual MGO content may vary slightly from batch to batch. MGO is measured in parts per million (ppm).

Which UMF™ or MGO grade Mānuka honey should I choose?

Your ideal Mānuka honey UMF™ rating depends on your needs:

UMF™ 5+ – Light daily support: Great for daily wellness, cooking, or as a sugar replacement.

UMF™ 10+ – Immune maintenance: Supports digestion and natural immunity. Popular for everyday health.

UMF™ 15+ – Targeted wellness: Stronger antibacterial support. Can be consumed or applied to the skin.

UMF™ 18+ – Advanced support: For more targeted health goals. Rich in natural bioactive compounds.

UMF™ 20+ – Maximum strength: Powerful for intense immune or digestive support.

Each spoonful contains over 2,000 natural compounds created by bees from Mānuka nectar and New Zealand’s native flora.

Trust the independent standard

The UMF™ mark is issued by the UMF™ Honey Association of New Zealand (UMFHA), an independent organisation committed to protecting the quality and authenticity of real Mānuka honey.

Every batch of UMF™-certified Mānuka honey is:

• Packed and sealed in New Zealand
• Tested for purity and freshness
• Traceable back to its quality certificate using a unique batch number
• Monitored globally to ensure standards remain true to label

This global oversight ensures your Mānuka honey is pure, powerful, and protected from fraud and mislabelling.

Your wellness upgrade starts with a spoonful

Discover Comvita’s premium Mānuka honey, UMF™-certified for authenticity and strength. Find your perfect match and experience the gold standard in natural health.