UMF vs MGO: What Do Mānuka Honey Ratings Mean?

Quick Answer

UMF and MGO are two different rating systems for Mānuka honey. MGO measures methylglyoxal, a key compound, while UMF is a broader quality marker that includes MGO plus other signature compounds. For most everyday use, a UMF 10+ or UMF 15+ offers a good balance of activity and value.

When you shop for Mānuka honey, you'll see two main ratings on the label: UMF and MGO. They both tell you something about the honey's strength, but they measure different things. Understanding the difference helps you pick the right jar for your needs without overpaying.

UMF stands for Unique Mānuka Factor and is a licensed quality marker. MGO stands for methylglyoxal, the naturally occurring compound often associated with Mānuka's unique properties. Here's what each rating means and how to use them when choosing honey.

What Does UMF Mean?

UMF is a trademarked grading system that tests for three key signature compounds in Mānuka honey, including methylglyoxal (MGO), dihydroxyacetone (DHA), and leptosperin. It's a more holistic measure of quality and authenticity. A UMF rating like 5+, 10+, 15+, or 18+ reflects a minimum level of these compounds.

Because UMF is licensed and audited, it also gives you confidence in the honey's authenticity. Not every honey producer can use the UMF label. When you choose a UMF-rated honey, you know it has been independently tested and meets a recognized standard.

What Does MGO Mean?

MGO specifically measures the amount of methylglyoxal in milligrams per kilogram. Methylglyoxal is the compound most often linked to Mānuka honey's antibacterial activity. A honey labeled MGO 400+ has at least 400 mg/kg of methylglyoxal.

MGO is a simpler, single-compound measurement. It's helpful for comparing the 'strength' of different honeys, but it doesn't capture the full range of naturally occurring compounds that UMF does. That's why you'll often see both ratings on the same jar.

How Do UMF and MGO Compare?

As a rough guide, UMF 10+ is roughly equivalent to MGO 263+, and UMF 15+ is around MGO 514+. UMF 18+ is approximately MGO 829+. But the exact correspondence depends on the honey's overall profile, so it's best to rely on one consistent scale.

If you see both labels, you're getting double the assurance. If you only see one, just remember that higher numbers mean higher levels of natural activity. For everyday wellness, a UMF 5+ or UMF 10+ is a good starting point. For more targeted support, you might choose a UMF 15+ or UMF 18+.

Myth vs. Fact: UMF and MGO

• Myth: MGO and UMF are the same thing.: MGO measures only methylglyoxal, while UMF is a broader quality marker that includes MGO plus other signature compounds. Look for UMF if you want a holistic quality signal; MGO is fine if you just want to compare methylglyoxal levels.
• Myth: Higher UMF always means better honey.: Higher UMF means higher levels of certain natural compounds, but it doesn't necessarily mean 'better' for every purpose. For everyday use, a lower grade may be ideal. Match the grade to your wellness goal and budget.
• Myth: You need a UMF 18+ to get any benefits.: Lower grades like UMF 5+ and UMF 10+ still contain natural compounds and antioxidants and are designed for daily wellness. Start with a lower grade for daily use; reserve higher grades for when you want targeted support.

How Comvita Mānuka Honey Ratings Work

• UMF 5+ Mānuka Honey: Daily Vitality: UMF 5+ Raw, Monofloral Mānuka honey is our most versatile grade, rich in natural compounds and antioxidants—perfect for daily wellness. If you're new to Mānuka honey, a UMF 5+ offers a gentle introduction to the flavor and benefits without a high price point.
• UMF 10+ Mānuka Honey Squeeze: Convenient and easy to use, the UMF 10+ Squeeze Bottle delivers everyday wellness with the perfect amount of Mānuka Honey in every squeeze. Ideal for quick additions to your tea, toast, or smoothies. A UMF 10+ squeeze bottle is a practical choice if you want moderate activity and convenience for daily use.
• UMF 15+ Mānuka Honey: Gut & Immune Support: UMF 15+ Raw, Monofloral Mānuka Honey offers a higher concentration of natural compounds to support everyday wellness, including digestive and immune health. When you need a more concentrated option for occasional targeted support, UMF 15+ provides a higher level of natural activity.

Understanding UMF and MGO removes the guesswork from choosing Mānuka honey. Use the rating to match the honey to your routine, budget, and wellness goals. Whether you pick a versatile UMF 5+ or a more concentrated UMF 15+, the right jar is the one that fits how you plan to use it.