What is the Difference Between UMF™ and MGO?
How to compare UMF™ and MGO quality ratings in Manuka Honey
Mānuka honey is one of New Zealand’s rarest creations, prized for its complex flavour and unique natural properties. But with dozens of brands and labels on the shelf, how do you know which jar truly delivers what it claims?
If you’ve ever compared two products side by side and noticed terms like UMF™, MGO, or even ‘Active’ or ‘Factor 500+,’ you're not alone in wondering what it all means. In a market full of confusing claims, understanding the difference between UMF™ and MGO can help you make a confident, informed choice.
For decades, Comvita has been a trusted leader in sustainably harvesting authentic Mānuka honey. We’re committed to ensuring that every jar of genuine New Zealand Mānuka honey is traceable, transparent, and true to its origins, because that’s exactly how it should be. We rely on the UMF™ grading system, the globally recognised gold standard for purity and potency, to give our customers in New Zealand and around the world complete confidence in what they’re buying.
Here’s how it works.
Why do Mānuka honey ratings matter?
Not all honey is created equal, and not all Mānuka honey is genuine.
As global demand has grown, so have misleading marketing terms. Labels like ‘bio-active,’ ‘active honey,’ or ‘Factor 500+’ can suggest strength but often lack scientific backing or independent certification. To bring clarity and consistency to the market, two primary grading systems have emerged:
MGO (Methylglyoxal) – Measures one naturally occurring compound
UMF™ (Unique Mānuka Factor) – A multi-factor, independently verified quality system
At Comvita, we display the UMF™ rating on every jar of New Zealand Mānuka honey because it’s the most complete and trustworthy grading system available.
Is UMF™ the same as MGO in Mānuka honey? Let’s take a look at the differences.
What is MGO in Mānuka honey?
MGO stands for methylglyoxal, a naturally occurring compound that forms in genuine Mānuka honey during its maturation process. It’s one of the naturally occurring compounds linked to Mānuka honey’s unique non-peroxide activity, and sets this New Zealand honey apart from other honey types.
The MGO rating system measures the methylglyoxal content in milligrams per kilogram (mg/kg). For example:
- MGO 83+ indicates a lower concentration (typically for everyday use)
- MGO 514+ or higher indicates a high grade with more potency
But here’s what matters: An MGO rating alone doesn’t tell the whole story. As MGO can be synthetically added, it’s not a guarantee of authenticity. That’s why independent assurance systems like the Unique Mānuka Factor are essential as they confirm the honey’s quality, purity, and true floral source.
What is UMF™ in Mānuka honey?
UMF™ (Unique Mānuka Factor) is a complete and advanced grading system that measures the beneficial compounds and quality of genuine Mānuka honey from New Zealand. Developed and regulated by the UMF™ Honey Association (UMFHA), this internationally recognised system verifies that every jar meets strict standards for authenticity, freshness, and potency.
The UMF™ system tests for the following natural compounds:
Methylglyoxal (MGO)
Methylglyoxal contributes to the unique properties that distinguish Mānuka honey from other honeys. It’s essential for potency, but since it can be added artificially, measuring just MGO alone doesn’t confirm authenticity.
Dihydroxyacetone (DHA)
Found in the nectar of the Mānuka flower, DHA gradually converts to MGO as the honey matures. Measuring DHA helps ensure the MGO develops naturally, and also indicates how long the honey will maintain its potency over time.
Leptosperin
A natural compound unique to Mānuka nectar. Leptosperin is extremely difficult to synthesise, making it a powerful authenticity marker. Its presence confirms the honey’s New Zealand floral origin, rather than any kind of blend or substitution.
Lepteridine™ (3,6,7-Trimethyllumazine)
Discovered by Comvita scientists, this rare plant compound is found only in Mānuka honey. Unlike other Mānuka honey producers, Comvita goes beyond the standard trio of chemical markers, testing for Lepteridine™ as a fourth layer of authenticity and quality assurance.
Read our full guide for more information.
Why Comvita trusts the UMF™ system
At Comvita, we’ve been working with bees and honey since 1974—long before Mānuka honey was globally known. Today, we’re still guided by science, nature, and quality.
We trust UMF™’s advanced grading system because:
- It’s independently verified in New Zealand and overseas
- Every jar is traceable to its origin
- It protects consumers from mislabelled or adulterated honey
- And most importantly, it’s grounded in scientific testing, not marketing.
Read why Comvita’s UMF Mānuka honey is trusted worldwide.
What about KFactor and other labels?
You might see brands promoting KFactor, ‘Active Honey,’ or other rating systems. While some offer basic value, they do not measure all three signature compounds that confirm authenticity or antibacterial activity. For example:
- KFactor focuses on pollen count, which doesn’t reflect potency or freshness
- ‘Bio-active’ or ‘Factor 500+’ often rely on generalised antibacterial scores, not independent testing
That’s why Comvita and the broader scientific community recognise UMF™ as a purer indicator and the most advanced grading system for Mānuka honey.
Which grade of Mānuka honey is best?
Whether you're enjoying Mānuka honey in tea, adding it to your wellness routine, or taking it by the spoonful, the MGO and UMF grades of Mānuka honey guide your choice:
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UMF™ 5+ / MGO 83+ - Daily - Vitality & Wellness
- UMF™ 5+ is our most versatile grade of Mānuka honey.
- Rich in natural compounds, with a smooth flavour, it’s easy to incorporate Mānuka goodness into your nutritious daily menu.
- It’s a great snack, or sugar replacement that has the benefits of Mānuka.
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UMF™ 10+ / MGO 263+ - Daily - Nourishing Wellness
- UMF™ 10+ is one of our best-selling grades of Mānuka honey.
- Recommended grade for people seeking to maintain balance; consumed straight off the spoon, or as a tonic when mixed with warm water.
- It also makes a great pre work-out energy boost.
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UMF™ 15+ / MGO 514+ - Daily - Holistic Health Inside and Out
- UMF™ 15+ is recommended for people seeking the antibacterial, anti-inflammatory benefits of high UMF™ Mānuka honey.
- Consume straight off the spoon.
- Soothing when applied to the skin for treating certain conditions.
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UMF™ 18+ / MGO 696+ - Targeted - Strong and Potent
- UMF™ 18+ is recommended for people seeking to step up their everyday wellness regime and wanting an increased level of antibacterial activity provided through higher MGO levels.
- Most effective when consumed straight off the spoon.
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UMF™ 20+ / MGO 829+ - Targeted - Pure, Potent and Powerful
- UMF™ 20+ is recommended for people seeking the benefits of very high strength Mānuka honey.
- To support and boost digestive wellness when you simply need the best.
- Most effective when consumed straight off the spoon.
Not sure which UMF™ grade or MGO rating is right for you?
Our UMF™ conversion guide can help.
What else matters when choosing Mānuka honey?
Choosing high-quality Mānuka honey isn’t just about the label. It’s about the people behind it, the land it comes from, and how it’s made. At Comvita, our commitment runs deep. We practise regenerative beekeeping, protect native bush, and lead sustainable honey production in Aotearoa. Our Harmony Plan helps preserve the ecosystems that make authentic, UMF™-certified Mānuka honey possible.
Seven signs you’re buying authentic Mānuka honey
- It’s harvested in New Zealand
- It comes from the Mānuka plant
- It’s verified by the New Zealand Government (MPI)
- It contains the three signature compounds
- It’s graded using the UMF™ system
- It carries independent assurance
- It’s made by a trusted New Zealand honey producer (like Comvita)
Read more in our comprehensive guide.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Mānuka honey difference between UMF™ and MGO?
MGO measures just one chemical—methylglyoxal—linked to its antibacterial properties. UMF™ measures all three signature compounds that together confirm potency, freshness, and authenticity.
Is UMF™ the same as MGO in Mānuka honey?
Not exactly. Think of MGO as a single marker and UMF™ as the full picture. For example, UMF™ 10+ roughly equals MGO 263+.
What is KFactor in honey?
KFactor grades by pollen count, but doesn’t confirm the presence of the key compounds measured by UMF™, so it’s not a complete measure of authenticity.
Which grade of Mānuka honey should I choose?
The different grades of Mānuka honey make it easy to incorporate into your everyday wellness routine.
- UMF™ 5–10: Everyday use
- UMF™ 10–15: Mid-grade with more complexity
- UMF™ 15–20+: High-grade, premium honey for more potency and an extra boost in health benefits
Where can I buy UMF™ Mānuka honey?
You can start right here!. All Comvita Mānuka honey is UMF™-certified and meets the New Zealand Government's MPI standard. You’ll also find our jars in trusted pharmacies, health stores, and global retailers.
Choosing genuine Mānuka honey starts with Comvita
When you choose Comvita, you’re choosing more than just honey. You’re choosing a long legacy of care, science-backed quality, and the very best of New Zealand’s natural honey goodness. Explore our full range of UMF™-certified Mānuka honey - independently tested, traceable, and crafted in New Zealand.