How to Read Mānuka Honey Labels: UMF, MGO, and More
By Comvita Mānuka Honey & Wellness Products for Your Wellbeing | Published: 2026-09-02
Category: Buying Guides
Learn what UMF, MGO, and other label terms really mean so you can choose authentic, high-quality Mānuka honey with confidence.
Quick Answer
To read a Mānuka honey label, start by looking for a UMF or MGO rating, which are independent measures of the honey's key active compounds. Check for a certification mark or batch number to verify authenticity, and then choose a rating that matches your wellness goals and budget.
Walk into any honey aisle and you'll see jars labeled with mysterious acronyms and numbers. UMF, MGO, and other terms like 'raw' and 'monofloral' can feel overwhelming. But understanding these labels is the key to getting a product that's worth its premium price.
This guide breaks down what each label term means, how to verify authenticity, and how to choose the right rating for your needs. Whether you're a first-time buyer or a seasoned enthusiast, you'll learn exactly what to look for on the jar.
What Does UMF Mean on Mānuka Honey?
UMF (Unique Mānuka Factor) is a grading system that measures the concentration of three key compounds found in authentic Mānuka honey: leptosperin, DHA, and methylglyoxal (MGO). The UMF rating indicates the level of natural bioactivity in the honey—higher numbers mean stronger antibacterial and antioxidant properties.
For example, a UMF 10+ honey has moderate activity, while UMF 15+ offers higher concentrations of natural compounds for everyday wellness. UMF 18+ is ideal for targeted gut and immune support, and UMF 20+ is ultra-premium. The UMF label is independently certified, so you can trust the number represents genuine quality.
What Does MGO Mean on Mānuka Honey?
MGO stands for methylglyoxal, one of the primary antibacterial compounds in Mānuka honey. The MGO rating measures the exact amount of methylglyoxal in milligrams per kilogram. For instance, MGO 400+ means the honey contains at least 400 mg/kg of methylglyoxal.
MGO is a direct measure of potency, while UMF also considers other synergistic compounds. Labels often show both numbers—for example, UMF 15+ is roughly equivalent to MGO 514+, but the UMF rating gives a fuller picture of quality. When comparing honeys, look for both ratings to understand the honey's overall strength.
- UMF 10+ ≈ MGO 263+
- UMF 15+ ≈ MGO 514+
- UMF 18+ ≈ MGO 696+
How to Check for Authenticity and Certification
Authentic Mānuka honey should have a UMF trademark or license number on the label, which indicates the producer is licensed by the UMF Honey Association. You can verify this number on the association's website to confirm the honey is genuine and meets strict standards.
Look for a batch number on the jar—this lets you check the honey's traceability back to the source. Some brands also include an MGO certificate, which is a laboratory test result showing the methylglyoxal content. A trustworthy brand will make these documents easy to access.
- Look for the UMF trademark and license number.
- Find a batch number for traceability.
- Request an MGO certificate from the brand's website.
Step-by-Step: How to Read a Mānuka Honey Label
- Check the UMF rating: Look for the UMF trademark on the front of the jar. The number (e.g., 10+, 15+, 18+) indicates the honey's grade, with higher numbers meaning stronger antibacterial activity. If the UMF rating is absent, the honey may not be authentic premium Mānuka. A higher UMF means better quality, but also a higher price. Pick a rating that matches your from 10+ for daily use to 18+ for targeted support.
- Verify the MGO number: Find the MGO rating on the label, which tells you the methylglyoxal content in mg/kg. This is a direct measure of potency and helps you compare different jars. Ensure MGO levels align with your intended use—higher MGO for stronger effects. Example: UMF 15+ ≈ MGO 514+; if a jar claims high UMF but a low MGO, the label may be misleading.
- Look for certification marks: Check for the UMF license number or trademark on the jar. This means the honey is independently verified to meet strict standards. You can look up the license number online to confirm authenticity. Avoid products without a UMF license number—they may not be genuine Mānuka honey.
- Inspect the batch number and traceability: Find the batch number or lot code on the label. This allows you to trace the honey back to its source, ensuring it's not blended with cheaper honeys. Reputable brands provide batch details on their websites. Traceable batches mean you can trust what's in the jar. If you can't find a batch number, consider it a red flag.
Product Facts: UMF Ratings in Practice
- UMF 10+ Mānuka Honey 3-Pack: Daily Energy & Wellness: A multi-pack of UMFTM Raw, Monofloral Mānuka honey, perfect for daily wellness and natural energy. Save 10% when you buy more with our multi-pack. If you're new to Mānuka honey, starting with a UMF 10+ jar gives you real benefits without a high upfront cost. The 3-pack is a great way to keep a supply at home and work.
- UMF 15+ Mānuka Honey: Gut & Immune Support: UMFTM 15+ Raw, Monofloral Mānuka Honey offers a higher concentration of natural compounds to support everyday wellness, including digestive and immune health. This is a solid mid-range choice for daily use when you want stronger gut and immune support. The higher UMF rating means more of the beneficial compounds per spoonful.
- UMF 18+ Mānuka Honey: Targeted Gut & Immune Support: UMFTM 18+ Raw, Monofloral Mānuka honey offers a high level of natural activity, making it ideal for targeted gut and immune support. Choose this when you want maximum potency for specific wellness goals—like supporting immunity during cold season. It's often used in smaller amounts because of its strength.
- UMF 25+ Mānuka Honey: Special Reserve: This limited release offers the rarest of the rare Mānuka Honeys. Every jar of Comvita Special Reserve UMFTM 25+ is unique, batch numbered and independently certified, guaranteed to contain a minimum MGO of 1200+, nearly 50% higher bioactivity than our ultra-premium UMF 20+ Mānuka Honey. To ensure product integrity, this limited-edition gift box is final sale. This is for collectors and those who want the absolute highest UMF rating available. Because it's a final-sale item and very limited, it's more of a special occasion purchase than an everyday staple.
Understanding Mānuka honey labels isn't as complicated as it seems. Focus on the UMF and MGO ratings, check for certification and batch traceability, and choose a strength that fits your wellness routine. With these skills, you'll avoid fakes and get the full benefits that authentic Mānuka honey offers.
