How to compare UMF™ and MGO

What is the Difference Between UMF™ and MGO?

How to compare UMF™ and MGO quality ratings in Manuka Honey

Mānuka honey is one of nature’s rarest gifts—highly prized for its complex flavour and unique natural properties. But with dozens of brands and labels on the shelf, how do you know which jar truly delivers what it claims?

If you’ve ever compared two products side by side and noticed terms like UMF™, MGO, or even ‘Active’ or ‘Factor 500+,’ you're not alone in wondering what it all means. In a market full of confusing claims, understanding the difference between UMF™ and MGO can help you make a confident, informed choice.

At Comvita, we believe that buying genuine New Zealand Mānuka honey should be a transparent and straightforward process. Here’s how we help our customers do that—and why the UMF™ grading system is our gold standard.

Why do Mānuka honey ratings matter?

Not all honey is created equal—and not all Mānuka honey is genuine.

As global demand has grown, so have misleading marketing terms. Labels like ‘bio-active,’ ‘active honey,’ or ‘Factor 500+’ may suggest strength but are not supported by the same independent verification as UMF™.

To bring clarity to the market, two primary grading systems have emerged:

MGO (Methylglyoxal) – Measures one naturally occurring compound

UMF™ (Unique Mānuka Factor) – A multi-factor, independently verified quality system

At Comvita, we display the UMF™ rating on every jar of New Zealand Mānuka honey because it’s the most complete and trustworthy grading system available.

So, what are UMF™ and MGO? Let’s take a look at what MGO and UMF™ mean.

What is MGO in Mānuka honey?

What is the Mānuka honey MGO meaning? MGO stands for methylglyoxal, a naturally occurring compound that forms in Mānuka honey during its maturation process. It’s identified as a key natural compound linked to Mānuka honey’s unique non-peroxide activity, and sets this New Zealand honey apart from other types.

The MGO rating measures the methylglyoxal content in milligrams per kilogram (mg/kg). For example:

  • MGO 83+ indicates a lower concentration (typically for everyday use)
  • MGO 514+ or higher indicates a much more concentrated grade

But here’s what matters: An MGO rating alone doesn’t tell the whole story. As MGO can be synthetically added, it’s not a guarantee of authenticity.

That’s why independent testing systems like UMF™ are essential—they confirm the honey’s quality, purity, and true floral source.

What is UMF™ in Mānuka honey?

UMF™ (Unique Mānuka Factor) is a complete, advanced grading system that measures the quality of genuine New Zealand Mānuka honey. Developed and regulated by the UMF™ Honey Association (UMFHA), this internationally recognised system verifies that every jar meets strict standards for purity, potency, authenticity, and freshness.

To earn the UMF™ mark, each batch of honey must be independently tested and shown to contain a specific combination of naturally occurring chemical markers, including:

Methylglyoxal (MGO)

This chemical marker gives Mānuka honey its unique antibacterial, non-peroxide activity. It’s an essential marker of potency, but since MGO can be added synthetically, measuring it alone doesn’t confirm authenticity or purity.

Dihydroxyacetone (DHA)

Found in the nectar of the Mānuka flower, DHA gradually converts to MGO as the honey matures. Measuring DHA helps ensure the MGO develops naturally, and also indicates how long the honey will maintain its potency over time.

Leptosperin

A natural compound unique to Mānuka nectar. Leptosperin is extremely difficult to synthesise, making it a powerful marker for authenticity. Its presence confirms that the honey comes from genuine Mānuka floral sources—not blends or substitutes.

Lepteridine™ (3,6,7-Trimethyllumazine)

Discovered by Comvita scientists, this rare plant compound is found only in Mānuka honey. Like Leptosperin, it can’t be added artificially.

Comvita is the only honey producer that tests for Lepteridine™, adding another level of certainty that our honey is genuine and high quality.

Looking for more information? Read our full guide.

Why Comvita trusts the UMF™ system

At Comvita, we’ve been working with bees and honey since 1974—long before Mānuka honey was known internationally. Today, we’re still guided by science, nature, and integrity. We trust the UMF™ grading system because it aligns with our values:

  • It’s independently verified in New Zealand and overseas
  • Every jar can be traced back to its origin
  • It protects consumers from mislabelled or adulterated honey
  • And most importantly, it’s grounded in scientific testing, not marketing.

What about KFactor and other labels?

You might see brands promoting KFactor, ‘Active Honey,’ or other proprietary rating systems. While they may offer some value, they do not measure the full range of chemical markers that confirm authenticity or quality. For example:

  • KFactor focuses on pollen count, which doesn’t reflect potency or freshness
  • ‘Bio-active’ or ‘Factor 500+’ often rely on generalised antibacterial scores, not independent lab testing

That’s why we at Comvita—and many in the scientific and export communities—trust the UMF grading system as the most advanced system for Mānuka honey.

Which grade of Mānuka honey is best?

Whether you’re adding a Mānuka honey product to your tea, as part of a wellness routine, or simply enjoying it by the spoonful, choosing the ideal MGO or UMF™ rating depends on your needs.

  • UMF™ 5+ / MGO 83+ - Daily - Vitality & Wellness
    • UMF™ 5+ is our most versatile grade of Mānuka honey.
    • Rich in natural compounds, with a smooth flavour, it’s easy to incorporate Mānuka goodness into your nutritious daily menu.
    • It’s a great snack, or sugar replacement that has the benefits of Mānuka.
  • UMF™ 10+ / MGO 263+ - Daily - Nourishing Wellness
    • UMF™ 10+ is one of our best-selling grades of Mānuka honey.
    • Recommended grade for people seeking to maintain balance; consumed straight off the spoon, or as a tonic when mixed with warm water.
    • It also makes a great pre work-out energy boost.
  • UMF™ 15+ / MGO 514+ - Daily - Holistic Health Inside and Out
    • UMF™ 15+ is recommended for people seeking the antibacterial, anti-inflammatory benefits of high UMF™ Mānuka honey.
    • Consume straight off the spoon.
    • Soothing when applied to the skin for treating certain conditions.
  • UMF™ 18+ / MGO 696+ - Targeted - Strong and Potent
    • UMF™ 18+ is recommended for people seeking to step up their everyday wellness regime and wanting an increased level of antibacterial activity provided through higher MGO levels.
    • Most effective when consumed straight off the spoon.
  • UMF™ 20+ / MGO 829+ - Targeted - Pure, Potent and Powerful
    • UMF™ 20+ is recommended for people seeking the benefits of very high strength Mānuka honey.
    • To support and boost digestive wellness when you simply need the best.
    • Most effective when consumed straight off the spoon.

If you’re not sure which Mānuka honey grade is best for you, our guide can help.

What else matters when choosing Mānuka honey?

While testing and certifications are essential, choosing high-quality Mānuka honey also means choosing a brand that cares for its source, from the beehives to the environment.

At Comvita, we’ve been working in harmony with nature since 1974. Long before sustainability became a global priority, we were practising regenerative beekeeping and protecting the ecosystems that make genuine Mānuka honey possible.

Our commitment goes beyond honey. Through our Harmony Plan, we care for bees, nurture native forests, and support resilient communities—so this rare and precious gift of nature can be enjoyed for generations to come.

Seven signs you’re buying authentic Mānuka honey

  1. Your Mānuka Honey is from New Zealand
  2. It’s made from Mānuka Flowers
  3. It gets the MPI tick (Ministry for Primary Industries)
  4. It contains four unique compounds
  5. It carries the UMF™ quality mark
  6. It’s independently verified and certified
  7. It’s produced by a reputable, well-established brand (like Comvita)

Read more in our comprehensive guide.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Mānuka honey difference between UMF™ and MGO?

MGO measures just one compound—methylglyoxal—that contributes to genuine Mānuka honey’s antibacterial properties. UMF™ measures four chemical markers that together confirm purity, freshness, and authenticity.

Is UMF™ the same as MGO in Mānuka honey?

Not directly, but there are accepted comparison levels between UMF™ vs MGO. For example, UMF™ 10+ roughly equals MGO 263+.

What is KFactor in honey?

KFactor is a grading system based on pollen count. It does not assess MGO, DHA, Leptosperin, or purity markers, so it doesn’t verify Mānuka honey authenticity in the way UMF™ does.

Which grade of Mānuka honey should I choose?

Lower grades (UMF™ 5–10) are excellent for everyday enjoyment. Mid-range (UMF™ 10–15) balances strength and versatility. Higher grades of Mānuka honey (UMF™ 15–20+) are more concentrated and suitable when you're looking for the most potent, premium honey.

Where can I buy UMF™ Mānuka honey?

You can start right here on our website. All Comvita Mānuka honey carries the UMF™ trademark, meaning you can be sure that it’s pure, potent, authentic, and fresh.

You’ll also find our Mānuka honey and other high-quality bee products at selected health stores, pharmacies, gift shops, duty-free stores, and department stores around Australia and the world.

Choosing genuine Mānuka honey starts with Comvita

When you shop with Comvita, you’re getting more than just Mānuka honey—you’re getting purity, traceability, and quality that’s guided by science and nature. Our New Zealand honey is raw, UMF™-certified, and harvested with care, so you can trust that what’s on your spoon came straight from the hive, just as nature intended.

Explore our full range of genuine Mānuka Honey online today.

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