Differences Between MGO and UMF

If you have ever shopped for Mānuka honey, you have seen two numbers on the label: MGO and UMF. They look like competing scores, but they describe the same honey in two different ways. This guide explains what each one measures, how to convert between them, and how to pick the right strength.

What is MGO in Mānuka honey?

Methylglyoxal (MGO) is the natural compound that sets Mānuka honey apart from other honey. It forms as the honey matures: the nectar of the Mānuka bush (Leptospermum scoparium) contains dihydroxyacetone (DHA), and over time that DHA slowly turns into MGO. This is why the age and storage of the honey affect its final MGO level.

The number on the jar is the minimum amount of methylglyoxal per kilo. "MGO 400+" means every kilo of that honey contains at least 400 mg of methylglyoxal. The higher the number, the stronger the honey. Everyday jars start below MGO 100, while the rarest batches go beyond MGO 1200.

MGO is a single, simple measurement, which makes it easy to compare jars. What it does not tell you on its own is whether the honey is genuine Mānuka from New Zealand. That is where UMF comes in.

What is UMF?

UMF stands for Unique Mānuka Factor. It is a grading system and trademark run by the UMF Honey Association (UMFHA) in New Zealand. Instead of one compound, a UMF test checks three natural markers:

• MGO (methylglyoxal): the strength of the honey.
• DHA (dihydroxyacetone): the compound that turns into MGO over time, a sign of how the honey will keep.
• Leptosperin: a marker found only in Mānuka nectar, which confirms the honey is genuine Mānuka.

The grade runs from UMF 5+ up to UMF 30+. Only licensed New Zealand producers can use the UMF mark, and every batch is tested and traceable. When you see a UMF number, you know both the strength of the honey and that it is the real thing.

MGO vs UMF: the key differences

	MGO	UMF
What it measures	One compound: methylglyoxal	Three markers: MGO, DHA and leptosperin
What the number means	Minimum mg of MGO per kilo	A grade from 5+ to 30+
Proves it is genuine Mānuka	No, not on its own	Yes, through the leptosperin test
Who controls it	Each brand tests its own honey	Licensed by the UMF Honey Association

Neither number is "better". MGO is the clearest way to compare strength, and UMF adds an independent check that the honey is authentic. Every jar we sell shows its MGO level, and we list the UMF equivalent next to it so you can compare brands side by side.

UMF to MGO conversion table

Each UMF grade has a minimum MGO level. Brands often round these up a little on their labels, so MGO 573+ and MGO 575+ are both UMF 16+.

Show the full UMF to MGO table

UMF	MGO (mg/kg)	Strength
5+	83+	Everyday
6+	113+	Everyday
7+	146+	Everyday
8+	182+	Everyday
9+	222+	Everyday
10+	263+	Everyday
11+	308+	Everyday
12+	356+	Everyday
13+	406+	Premium
14+	459+	Premium
15+	514+	Premium
16+	572+	Premium
17+	633+	Premium
18+	696+	Premium
19+	761+	Premium
20+	829+	Superior
21+	899+	Superior
22+	971+	Superior
23+	1042+	Superior
24+	1122+	Superior
25+	1200+	Superior
26+	1282+	Superior
27+	1360+	Superior
28+	1450+	Superior
29+	1532+	Superior
30+	1620+	Superior

Which strength should you choose?

We group our honey into three strengths, so it is easy to find the right jar for how you will use it.

• Everyday (MGO under 400, up to UMF 12+): a daily spoonful, in tea, on toast or in cooking. The best value per jar.
• Premium (MGO 400 to 799, about UMF 13+ to 19+): a step up in strength for a daily spoonful, and a thoughtful gift.
• Superior (MGO 800 and above, about UMF 20+): our highest grades. These batches are rare, which is reflected in the price.

Higher is not automatically better for everyone. If you eat Mānuka honey every day, an Everyday or Premium jar gives you more honey for your money. Superior grades suit people who want the strongest honey available. Still not sure? Our Find your Mānuka quiz takes 30 seconds.

How to check your Mānuka honey is genuine

• Look for the numbers: a real Mānuka jar shows an MGO number, a UMF grade, or both.
• Check the origin: the label should say "100% New Zealand Mānuka honey" and name the producer.
• Verify the licence: UMF producers carry a licence number you can check on the UMF Honey Association website.
• Buy from a trusted seller: we source directly from Egmont Honey, Manuka Health and Comvita, and every jar we sell is independently tested.

For more on spotting fakes, read our guide to fake Mānuka honey.

Frequently asked questions

Have a question about a specific grade or jar? Get in touch and our team will help you choose.