UMF vs MGO: Manuka Honey Ratings Explained

Manuka Honey Guide

UMF vs MGO: Manuka Honey Ratings Explained

When shopping for Manuka honey, you will often see two important ratings: UMF and MGO. This guide explains what they mean, how they are different, and how to choose the right Manuka honey for your needs.

🏷️

Compare Ratings

Understand the difference between UMF and MGO before choosing a jar.

🍯

Choose by Use

Pick a rating based on taste preference, budget, and how often you plan to use it.

🛒

Buy Smarter

Check rating, brand, size, value, and delivery details before buying online.

What Is UMF?

UMF stands for Unique Manuka Factor. It is a grading system used on many premium Manuka honey products. UMF ratings are usually shown as numbers such as UMF 5+, UMF 10+, UMF 15+, or higher.

In simple terms, UMF helps customers compare the strength and premium level of different Manuka honey products.

What Is MGO?

MGO stands for methylglyoxal. MGO ratings are usually shown as numbers such as MGO 100+, MGO 250+, MGO 400+, MGO 550+, or higher.

The MGO number helps customers compare different Manuka honey strengths in a simple numerical way.

UMF vs MGO: What Is the Difference?

UMF Rating

Wider grading system

UMF is a grading system commonly used on premium Manuka honey products. It helps customers understand and compare product strength levels.

MGO Rating

Number-based comparison

MGO focuses on the methylglyoxal level shown as a number. This makes it easy to compare products by strength.

Rating What it shows Common examples Best for
UMF A grading system used on many premium Manuka honey products. UMF 5+, UMF 10+, UMF 15+ Customers who want a familiar premium grading system.
MGO A number that helps compare Manuka honey strength. MGO 100+, MGO 250+, MGO 400+ Customers who prefer a clear numerical comparison.

Which Manuka Honey Rating Should I Choose?

The best choice depends on your taste preference, budget, and how often you plan to use the product. A higher rating usually means a stronger and more premium Manuka honey profile, but it is not always necessary for every customer.

01

Entry Option

Lower UMF or MGO ratings are often chosen by customers trying Manuka honey for the first time.

02

Everyday Premium

Mid-strength ratings are a balanced choice for customers looking for regular use and good value.

03

Premium Choice

Higher ratings are usually chosen by customers looking for a stronger Manuka honey profile.

04

Gift Option

Premium jars or bundles with clear UMF or MGO ratings can make a thoughtful food gift.

What Should You Check Before Buying?

Do not choose Manuka honey only by the rating. A good buying decision should also consider the full product details and overall value.

Buying Checklist

  • UMF or MGO rating
  • Brand
  • Jar size
  • Origin
  • Price per jar
  • Price per 100 g
  • Product availability
  • Delivery information
  • Return policy
  • Customer support details

Quick Questions

Is UMF better than MGO?
UMF and MGO are different ways to compare Manuka honey. One is not automatically better for every customer. The best choice depends on the product, rating, brand, size, and value.
Is a higher rating always better?
A higher rating usually means a stronger Manuka honey profile, but not every customer needs the highest rating. For daily use, many people choose lower or mid-strength products.
Which Manuka honey is best for beginners?
Beginners often start with a lower or mid-strength Manuka honey so they can compare taste, texture, and value before choosing a higher-rated option.
Should I compare price per 100 g?
Yes. Comparing price per 100 g can help you understand real value, especially when comparing different jar sizes, ratings, and bundle offers.

Ready to compare Manuka honey?

Browse our available Manuka honey products and compare UMF rating, MGO rating, jar size, brand, and value.

Shop Manuka Honey Ask a Question