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. UMF and MGO both measure the strength of Manuka honey.

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

MGO 829+

High strength

Higher potency wellness

High

Selective harvest

1 tsp daily

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.