UMF vs MGO: What’s the Real Difference in Mānuka Honey?”

Quick answer: UMF and MGO are two grading systems used for Mānuka honey. MGO (methylglyoxal) measures the actual antibacterial strength of the honey. UMF (Unique Mānuka Factor) includes MGO but also factors in other compounds like DHA and leptosperin. However, the industry in New Zealand is shifting away from UMF due to its high cost and exclusivity. Honestly Mānuka uses MGO-based certifications - providing full transparency, traceability, and scientifically validated potency without inflated prices.

Why the UMF vs MGO Debate Is More Relevant Than Ever

Not all Mānuka honey is created equal - and if you’ve felt confused by labels like "UMF 10+" or "MGO 550+", you’re not alone.

UMF has long been seen as the gold standard. But over time, it’s become a costly, trademarked system that favours large producers. That’s why many ethical, small-batch New Zealand honey producers (including Honestly Mānuka) are choosing MGO-based grading instead.

This shift isn't about cutting corners - it's about making authentic Mānuka honey more accessible, transparent, and honestly priced.

UMF vs MGO: What’s the Real Difference?

Feature	UMF	MGO
What it measures	MGO, DHA, leptosperin	MGO (methylglyoxal), the main antibacterial marker
Who manages it	UMF Honey Association (trademarked)	Independent ISO-certified labs
Focus	Trademarked quality programme	Pure science-based potency measurement
Traceability	Yes (for licensed members)	Yes (lab-certified with batch tracking)
Accessibility	Expensive, limited to licensees	Open to all certified producers
Cost	High; can drive up retail prices	Lower; focused on quality, not brand fees
Transparency	Certification available upon request	Lab results often openly available
Used by Honestly Mānuka?	❌ No	✅ Yes (MGO Certified)

What Is MGO in Mānuka Honey?

MGO stands for methylglyoxal - the compound that gives Mānuka honey its uniquely powerful antibacterial properties. It develops naturally in the honey from DHA found in Mānuka nectar.

Why MGO Matters:

It’s the primary driver of antibacterial activity.
It’s scientifically measurable and independently verified.
It’s what most therapeutic benefits correlate with.

That’s why Honestly Mānuka uses MGO ratings on every jar - to show exactly how potent your honey really is.

What Is UMF in Mānuka Honey?

UMF, or Unique Mānuka Factor, is a trademarked quality mark used by certain New Zealand honey producers. It includes MGO levels but also tests for:

DHA - a precursor to MGO
Leptosperin - a floral marker that helps confirm the honey is truly Mānuka.

Why Some Producers Are Moving Away from UMF:

It’s expensive - licensing and ongoing testing fees raise product prices.
It’s exclusive - smaller, honest producers are often priced out.
It’s trademarked, meaning not every high-quality Mānuka honey can use the term "UMF" even if it matches or exceeds the standard.

At Honestly Mānuka, we believe transparency should be accessible - and that real antibacterial strength should come from lab-tested science, not branding costs.

UMF to MGO Conversion Chart (For Reference Only)

MGO (mg/kg)	Approximate UMF Rating
MGO 83+	UMF 5+
MGO 330+	UMF 11+
MGO 550+	UMF 16+
MGO 850+	UMF 21+

🧪 At Honestly Mānuka, we clearly label our honey using MGO levels, so you know exactly what strength of MGO you're getting - no guesswork, no trademark markup.

🙋Frequently Asked Questions

Is UMF better than MGO?

Not necessarily. UMF includes MGO, but also measures other markers and is controlled by a trademarked organisation. MGO testing focuses purely on antibacterial strength and is increasingly preferred for its clarity, cost-effectiveness, and accessibility.

Why doesn’t Honestly Mānuka use UMF?

Because UMF is a high-cost certification that limits access to the marketplace. Instead, we use independent MGO lab testing to give customers real data on potency, without inflating the price for a label.

Can I trust MGO-only honey?

Yes - if it’s backed by lab results. MGO is a stable, measurable compound that directly correlates with the honey’s antibacterial power.

Which MFO strength should I choose?

MFO 350+ → everyday wellness
MFO 550+ → immune support, colds, minor skin concerns
MFO 850+ → high-strength support for gut health, wounds, skin issues

Final Thoughts: You Deserve the Honest Truth

UMF is not the enemy - but it’s no longer the only (or best) way to assess Mānuka honey. As producers and consumers become more educated, the trend is moving toward independent, MGO-based testing that focuses on what really matters: antibacterial strength and transparency.

At Honestly Mānuka, we proudly offer MGO-certified honey with full lab reports, direct from ethical beekeepers in New Zealand.

✅ No inflated certification costs.
✅ No exclusivity.
✅ Just the raw, honest power of genuine Mānuka.

🔍 Want to experience the difference?
👉 Explore our full range of MGO-certified Mānuka honeys »