How to Choose the Best Mānuka Honey: UMF vs MGO Explained

If you’ve ever shopped for Mānuka honey, you’ll know the jars come with different labels -- UMF ratings, MGO numbers, and sometimes both. But what do they mean? And more importantly, how do you choose the best Mānuka honey for your needs?

In this guide, we’ll break down the difference between Mānuka honey UMF ratings and MGO ratings and help you find the right jar for your lifestyle.

What Do UMF and MGO Mean?

• UMF (Unique Mānuka Factor): A quality trademark managed by the UMF Honey Association in New Zealand. It measures multiple compounds, including MGO, DHA, and leptosperin, and ensures the honey is genuine, high-quality, and tested by independent labs.
• MGO (Methylglyoxal): A scientific measure of the antibacterial compound in Mānuka honey. The higher the MGO number, the stronger the honey’s natural activity.

In short, MGO measures the strength, while UMF certifies authenticity and quality.

UMF vs MGO – What’s the Difference?

Here’s a quick comparison:

UMF Rating	Approx. MGO Equivalent	Typical Use
UMF 5+	MGO 83+	Everyday sweetener, light wellness use
UMF 10+	MGO 263+	Daily immune support, general health
UMF 15+	MGO 514+	Skincare, digestive health, targeted support
UMF 20+	MGO 829+	High-strength, intensive wellness support

Which Rating Should You Choose?

It depends on how you plan to use Mānuka honey:

• Everyday use (sweetener, drinks, cooking): UMF 5+ or UMF 10+
• General wellness and immunity: UMF 10+ or UMF 15+
• Therapeutic or targeted health support: UMF 20+ and above

Why Certified Authenticity Matters

Not all honey labelled “Mānuka” is authentic. That’s why it’s important to choose certified Mānuka honey from New Zealand. UMF certification guarantees:

• Independent lab testing
• Genuine New Zealand origin
• Transparent MGO rating

At Mānuka Hunters, all our honey is UMF-certified and traceable from hive to jar.

How to Shop for the Best Mānuka Honey

When buying, check for:

• A clear UMF rating or MGO number
• Certification from the UMF Honey Association
• Trusted New Zealand source

Ready to find your perfect jar? → Shop Our UMF-Certified Mānuka Honey

Conclusion

Choosing the right Mānuka honey doesn’t have to be complicated. Once you understand UMF and MGO, it’s easy to match the rating to your needs -- whether that’s daily wellness, skincare, or high-strength support.

With Mānuka Hunters, you’re guaranteed pure, authentic New Zealand honey.