Manuka Honey UMF™ Comparison Guide

UMF™ and MGO measure the strength of Manuka honey. Higher UMF™ ratings correspond to higher MGO levels and greater antibacterial activity. MGO measures the concentration of methylglyoxal, while UMF™ is a broader grading system that also tests authenticity markers like leptosperin and DHA. Higher UMF™ ratings correspond to higher MGO levels.

What Is UMF™?

UMF™ (Unique Manuka Factor) is an independent quality grading system that measures the concentration of signature Manuka compounds. Higher UMF™ ratings indicate higher potency.

What Is MGO?

MGO (Methylglyoxal) is the naturally occurring compound in Manuka honey responsible for its antibacterial properties. UMF™ and MGO are directly related — higher UMF™ means higher MGO levels.

UMF™ Comparison Table

This guide explains the differences between UMF™ and MGO ratings and helps you choose the best Manuka honey strength.

UMF Grade MGO Level Positioning Best For Potency Level Rarity Typical Usage

MGO 263+

Everyday Manuka

Everyday wellness

Entry

Common harvest

1 tsp daily

MGO 514+

Stronger daily

Daily immune support

Moderate

Less common

1 tsp daily

UMF™ 20+

Best Seller

MGO 829+

High strength

Higher potency wellness

High

Selective harvest

1 tsp daily

UMF™ 24+

Best Seller

MGO 1122+

Premium high

Advanced potency users

Very high

Limited harvest

½–1 tsp daily

MGO 1282+

Advanced strength

Targeted high-strength routines

Very high+

Rare harvest

½–1 tsp daily

MGO 1450+

Ultra premium

Ultra-high potency

Ultra

Very rare harvest

½ tsp daily

MGO 1620+

Top tier

Maximum potency

Elite

Exceptionally rare

½ tsp or less daily

How to Choose the Right UMF Strength

Still unsure?

If you’re new to the world of manuka honey, all these different numbers can feel a bit overwhelming. To help make it easier for you, we developed a quick quiz that will share which grade is right for your needs. Take the quiz here.

Or reach out to our Customer Care team - we can help guide what Manuka Honey is right for you.

Phone (NZ): +64 (0)3 489 8845
Phone (USA): +1 850 662 6852
Email: hello@newzealandhoneyco.com

Our customer care team is available Monday to Friday, 8am – 4pm NZT (New Zealand Time). Please note: our U.S. phone number is monitored only during these hours.