UMF Explained: How to Choose the Right Mānuka Honey for You

Standing in front of a shelf of Mānuka honey can feel surprisingly complicated. You’ll often see numbers like UMF™ or MGO on jars, but what do they mean? Below we break it down to help you understand what these ratings indicate so you can shop with confidence.

UMF™ stands for Unique Mānuka Factor. It’s a quality trademark that represents a grading system developed specifically for Mānuka honey. Products carrying the UMF™ trademark have been independently tested and certified to confirm their authenticity and composition.

The UMF system evaluates several naturally occurring markers that are unique to genuine Mānuka honey. These markers help buyers compare jars and understand how each batch has been classified under a trusted standard.

The UMF™ mark verifies the presence of key indicators that are unique to Mānuka honey and confirm its quality, purity, and origin.

Common elements included in UMF evaluations are:

• MGO (Methylglyoxal) — a naturally occurring compound found at higher levels in Manuka honey compared with most other honeys.
• DHA (Dihydroxyacetone) — found in nectar and a precursor to MGO.
• Leptosperin — a plant-derived marker unique to Manuka nectar.
• HMF (Hydroxymethylfurfural) — an indicator used to assess freshness and handling.

Only products that meet the UMF™ Honey Association’s criteria may display the trademark on their label.

Many brands also highlight MGO, which stands for Methylglyoxal — a natural compound measured in milligrams per kilogram. It’s one way to communicate strength of the Manuka grade you are buying.

Whereas UMF™ is a trademarked certification that reflects multiple markers and provides a rating number, MGO simply describes the amount of one specific compound present and is therefore a content claim. Both the UMF™ rating and the MGO content level help consumers compare products, but they serve slightly different purposes.

UMF™ grades indicate the concentration of naturally occurring markers found in genuine Mānuka honey. While higher numbers reflect greater concentrations of these unique compounds, the right grade comes down to personal preference — including flavour intensity, how you like to enjoy your honey, and how often you use it.

Below is a guide to our UMF™ range to help you choose with confidence.

UMF™ 5+

A lighter UMF™ grade with a smooth, mild flavour.

Ideal for everyday use, whether stirred into warm drinks, drizzled over food, or enjoyed by the spoonful.

UMF™ 10+

A balanced UMF™ grade with a richer taste and increased concentration of Manuka markers.

A popular choice for regular enjoyment and those looking for a step up in intensity without overpowering flavour.

UMF™ 15+

A stronger UMF™ grade with a deeper, more robust Manuka flavour.

Often chosen by those who enjoy a more distinctive taste or prefer their honey straight from the jar.

UMF™ 20+

A premium UMF™ grade with higher concentrations of naturally occurring Manuka compounds.

Selected by experienced Manuka honey consumers who appreciate bold flavour and limited seasonal availability.

UMF™ 24+ and Higher

Our highest UMF™ grades represent some of the most concentrated and rare Mānuka honey we produce.

These jars are produced in very limited quantities and are often chosen by those seeking the most intense Manuka flavour experience or as a premium gift option.

Higher UMF™ doesn’t necessarily mean better, it simply reflects higher concentrations of naturally occurring Manuka markers. The best choice is the grade you’ll enjoy and use most often. Whether you prefer a lighter everyday honey or a bold, high-UMF™ experience, understanding the grades helps you choose what suits your lifestyle and taste preferences.

• Check for certification — UMF™ marks or clear independent grading helps consumers verify authenticity.
• Look for traceability — many brands highlight lab testing and traceability systems to show origin transparency.
• Understand label terminology — familiarise yourself with grading systems so you can make informed choices.

These elements help ensure you’re choosing genuine Mānuka honey, sourced and tested according to recognised standards.

Finding the right Mānuka honey doesn’t have to be confusing. By focusing on authenticity, grading systems, and trusted certifications like UMF™, you can easily compare products and select the one that fits your preferences and lifestyle. Look beyond the numbers and understand what they represent so you feel confident with every jar you choose.