What Does UMF Mean? UMF vs MGO Explained

UMF stands for Unique Mānuka Factor, a New Zealand certification and grading system used to assess the quality and authenticity of Mānuka honey. Unlike MGO, which measures a single compound, UMF assesses four quality factors to provide a broader picture of what's inside the jar.

Understanding the difference matters when comparing Mānuka honey products. Two jars may display similar MGO levels, but that doesn't necessarily mean they have undergone the same testing or certification.

This guide explains what UMF and MGO mean, how the grading works and what to look for when choosing genuine New Zealand Mānuka honey.

H2: What Is UMF in Mānuka Honey?

UMF (Unique Mānuka Factor) is an independently managed quality-assurance system developed specifically for New Zealand Mānuka honey.

Managed by the UMF Honey Association, the system verifies that honey carrying the UMF trademark meets defined standards for potency, authenticity, shelf life and freshness.

Each certified batch receives a numerical rating, such as UMF 5+, 10+, 15+ or 20+. Higher ratings correspond to higher required concentrations of methylglyoxal (MGO), one of the compounds responsible for Mānuka honey's distinctive non-peroxide antibacterial activity.

However, the rating is not based on MGO alone. UMF certification also requires testing for three other quality factors.

H2:What Are the Four UMF Quality Factors?

UMF testing examines four naturally occurring chemical markers to assess different characteristics of Mānuka honey.

These factors provide different information about the honey.

For example, a product could have a high MGO concentration but still require further testing to establish whether it meets the other requirements for UMF certification.

By assessing all four factors, the UMF system gives buyers more information than an MGO measurement on its own.

H2:What Is MGO in Mānuka Honey?

MGO stands for methylglyoxal, a naturally occurring compound found in Mānuka honey that is associated with its non-peroxide antibacterial activity.

MGO is formed as dihydroxyacetone (DHA), originally present in Mānuka flower nectar, gradually converts into methylglyoxal.

The concentration is measured in milligrams per kilogram (mg/kg) and commonly appears on labels as MGO 100+, 250+, 400+ or higher.

For example, MGO 400+ indicates a stated methylglyoxal concentration of at least 400 mg/kg.

Higher MGO numbers indicate a higher concentration of this particular compound. However, MGO alone does not confirm the honey's complete quality profile, New Zealand origin or compliance with UMF certification requirements.

H2:UMF vs MGO: What's the Difference?

The main difference between UMF and MGO is what each rating tells you about the honey.

MGO is a direct measurement of methylglyoxal concentration. UMF is a broader certification system that assesses MGO alongside authenticity, shelf-life and freshness markers.

A jar may display both an MGO figure and a UMF rating. These figures are related, but they should not be treated as interchangeable.

For brands and distributors, the distinction is particularly important when comparing suppliers. A stated MGO concentration and a verified UMF grade provide different levels of information about the product.

For a comparison with other grading approaches, including NPA and K-Factor, read our guide to Mānuka honey certification and grading methods.

H2:Can You Convert MGO to UMF?

MGO concentrations can be compared with the reference levels used in UMF grading, but an MGO measurement alone cannot establish a certified UMF rating.

For example, UMF 10+ is associated with an MGO concentration of approximately 261 mg/kg, while UMF 20+ is associated with approximately 826 mg/kg.

These figures help explain the relationship between the two scales. However, UMF certification also requires the honey to meet the relevant leptosperin, DHA and HMF criteria.

A product labelled MGO 400+ cannot automatically be described as UMF certified simply because its MGO concentration falls within a particular range.

The UMF Honey Association's grading information provides further detail on the specifications behind each rating.

H2:Is UMF the Same as MPI Mānuka Honey Testing?

No. UMF certification and New Zealand's Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI) testing requirements serve different purposes.

MPI sets the scientific definition used to authenticate honey labelled as Mānuka for export from New Zealand.

This definition requires testing for five attributes: four chemical markers and one DNA marker from Mānuka pollen. The results determine whether the honey meets the export definition for monofloral or multifloral Mānuka honey.

UMF uses a separate four-factor quality-assurance system that builds on this regulatory foundation.

In simple terms, MPI testing establishes whether exported honey meets the official Mānuka definition, while UMF provides additional information about its grade and quality.

You can read more about the requirements in MPI's guidance on authentic Mānuka honey.

Does a Higher UMF Rating Mean Better Mānuka Honey?

A higher UMF rating indicates a higher required MGO concentration within the UMF certification framework. It does not automatically mean the honey is better for every purpose.

UMF 5+ and UMF 10+ can be suitable choices for everyday consumption, while higher grades may appeal to customers looking for a product with a greater MGO concentration.

Taste, price, authenticity and intended use still matter.

For commercial buyers, higher grades can also affect product pricing and availability. A more expensive grade isn't necessarily the right choice for every retail range or finished product.

We've covered these decisions separately in our guides to what makes a good UMF rating and choosing Mānuka honey grades for your business.

It's also important to distinguish laboratory activity from medical use. A higher UMF or MGO rating does not, by itself, establish that a food-grade honey can treat a medical condition.

How Can You Verify a UMF Rating?

A genuine UMF-certified product should carry the official UMF quality mark, an appropriate rating and traceability information.

The UMF Honey Association maintains a directory of certified brands where buyers can check whether a business is authorised to use its certification.

For commercial purchases, you should also request batch-specific documentation confirming the grade, testing results and product specification.

These checks are particularly valuable when purchasing bulk honey, developing private label products or sourcing for international markets.

At Midlands Apiaries, we combine laboratory testing, quality controls and supply-chain traceability to support the Mānuka honey products we supply.

For more detailed advice on identifying genuine products, read How Can You Tell Real Mānuka Honey?.

How Can Commercial Buyers Obtain UMF Certification?

Businesses wanting to display the UMF™ rating and quality mark on their own Mānuka honey products must obtain an appropriate licence from the UMF Honey Association (UMFHA).

The process involves applying to the UMFHA, meeting its licensing requirements and ensuring the honey meets the required testing, grading and traceability standards.

UMFHA membership is generally intended for New Zealand-based businesses. However, overseas brands developing private label Mānuka honey products should contact the association to confirm the licensing arrangements available to them.

Midlands Apiaries can support commercial buyers with UMF-certified Mānuka honey supply, product specifications and testing documentation. Licensing and authorisation to use the UMF trademark are managed by the UMFHA.

Source Certified New Zealand Mānuka Honey with Midlands Apiaries

Understanding UMF and MGO helps buyers compare Mānuka honey grades and make more informed purchasing decisions.

Midlands Apiaries supplies New Zealand Mānuka honey for wholesale, ingredient manufacturing, retail-ready distribution and private label brands. Our team can help you understand available grades, product specifications and the documentation relevant to your market.

Explore our Mānuka honey range or contact Midlands to discuss your requirements.