MGO vs UMF in Manuka Honey: A Simple Guide with a Conversion Table
Pick up a jar of Manuka honey and you'll notice numbers like MGO 263+ or UMF 10+. These numbers are the most important thing on the label, because they tell you the honey's strength, purity and price. In this guide we explain the difference between MGO and UMF in simple terms, plus how to read any jar and tell whether the price is worth it.
What Does MGO Mean?
MGO stands for methylglyoxal, the natural compound that sets Manuka honey apart from any other honey. It comes from the nectar of the Manuka tree flower, which grows only in New Zealand.
The number next to MGO is the amount of this compound in milligrams per kilo of honey. So MGO 400+ means at least 400mg per kilo. The higher the number, the stronger the honey.
What Does UMF Mean, and How Is It Different from MGO?
UMF stands for Unique Manuka Factor, a grading system run by the UMF Honey Association in New Zealand (UMFHA). Rather than measuring just one compound, it tests three markers together:
- MGO: strength.
- DHA: the compound that turns into MGO over time, showing the honey will keep its strength.
- Leptosperin: a natural fingerprint proving the honey really comes from the Manuka flower and isn't blended.
That's why UMF is seen as a certificate of authenticity and purity, not just a strength number.
MGO vs UMF in Numbers: An Approximate Conversion Chart
| UMF | Approx. MGO | Best for |
|---|---|---|
| UMF 6+ | MGO 115+ | Light daily use |
| UMF 10+ | MGO 263+ | Everyday family use |
| UMF 13+ | MGO 400+ | Stronger support all year round |
| UMF 16+ | MGO 573+ | High grade (our best seller) |
| UMF 20+ | MGO 850+ | Very high grade |
| UMF 25+ | MGO 1200+ | The highest and rarest grades |
The numbers are approximate because each system measures differently, but they give you a clear idea when comparing jars.
MGO vs UMF: Which Is Better?
Both are accurate and recognised. The difference between MGO and UMF is that:
- MGO a direct number that's easy to understand: how strong it is.
- UMF also measures strength, but adds an extra guarantee that the honey is genuine, pure and independently tested.
So the best choice is a jar that shows both numbers, such as Haddrell’s MGO 263+ / UMF 10+ or Manuka Health MGO 400+ / UMF 13+.
Watch Out for Misleading Labels
- Active or Bio Active without an MGO or UMF number: marketing words that don't mean anything.
- Total Activity or TA: an old measure that doesn't reflect real Manuka strength.
- Multifloral: honey blended from other flowers, so its grade is much lower.
FAQs
Is a higher number always better?
Not necessarily. A higher number is stronger and pricier, but for everyday use MGO 263+ or 400+ is usually enough. Read our guide to choosing the right grade.
Does the MGO number change over time?
Real Manuka honey keeps its strength, as long as it's stored properly away from heat and sunlight. You can find out more in our guide to storing honey and checking it's real.
Where can I buy real Manuka honey in Bahrain?
All products in the ManukaBH shop are original New Zealand Manuka honey from Manuka Health andHaddrell’s, with clear MGO and UMF numbers and delivery across Bahrain and the GCC.
Got a question? Message us on WhatsApp and we'll help you choose the right honey for you 🍯