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 New Zealand 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™ grading system offers an all-around quality and authenticity assurance. The Mānuka honey MGO rating reflects the concentration of a single compound responsible for its non-peroxide activity.

Understanding how to compare UMF™ and equivalent MGO content is essential for making informed decisions about this beloved New Zealand treasure. Find our guide to MGO vs UMF™, including a handy Mānuka honey MGO to UMF converter, below.

What is the difference between UMF™ and MGO?

Is UMF™ and MGO the same thing? Not quite.

Mānuka honey MGO ratings reflect the amount of methylglyoxal (MGO) in mg/kg (milligrams per kilogram). MGO is one of the key natural compounds linked to Mānuka honey’s unique non-peroxide activity.

By contrast, the Mānuka honey UMF™ rating (Unique Mānuka Factor) is a more comprehensive measure. It includes MGO, but also tests for three other compounds that serve as authenticity markers to confirm freshness, purity, and origin.

This makes UMF™ the only independently verified standard in the world that measures MGO content, as well as the other naturally occurring key compounds unique to Mānuka honey.

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

Why the four-factor UMF™ test matters

The UMF™ (Unique Mānuka Factor) system does more than assess strength. It helps identify authentic Mānuka honey with verified bioactive compounds. Here's what’s tested in each jar:

1. MGO

Measures methylglyoxal content in mg/kg. MGO is the key contributor to non-peroxide antibacterial activity.

2. Leptosperin

Confirms floral authenticity. Found only in Mānuka nectar, leptosperin is a key chemical marker that distinguishes Mānuka honey from other honey.

3. DHA

Dihydroxyacetone naturally converts to MGO. Testing for DHA ensures your honey will retain its potency over time.

4. HMF

Helps ensure your honey is raw and fresh. Elevated HMF levels can signal overheating or age.

These four factors are essential in the UMF™ grading system. It’s the only global standard that verifies purity, potency, and origin.

Is UMF™ better than MGO?

When comparing UMF™ vs MGO, the better choice depends on what you value.

The MGO system gives a single number to represent methylglyoxal strength, which is great if you want a straightforward way to compare methylglyoxal levels.

But if you’re looking for authenticity and full-spectrum quality, the UMF™ rating includes that MGO level, plus the additional testing needed to confirm that your honey hasn’t been overheated, diluted, or blended.

Every batch of UMF™ Mānuka honey is independently tested in New Zealand and internationally, ensuring it delivers the grade printed on the label.

How do I convert Mānuka Honey UMF™ to MGO?

While not exactly interchangeable, researchers have developed a UMF to MGO comparison based on typical potency levels.

Use the table below as a rough Mānuka honey MGO to UMF calculator:

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?

Choosing the right Mānuka honey UMF rating or MGO level depends on your use:

• 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.
    

• 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.
    

• 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.
    

• 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.
    

• 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.
    

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 the hive using a unique batch number
• Monitored globally to ensure standards remain true to label

This global oversight helps ensure your New Zealand Mānuka honey is pure, potent, and protected from fraud and mislabelling. 

Enjoy authenticity and quality in every spoonful

Ready to experience genuine New Zealand Mānuka honey? Explore Comvita’s full range of UMF™-certified products—every jar is graded, tested, and traceable from hive to shelf. If you’re ready for the best nature has to offer, you’ll find it here. Shop today.