What Is Manuka Honey? A Complete Beginner’s Guide to UMF, MGO, Quality & Uses

If you’ve ever looked at a jar of Manuka honey and wondered,

“What do all these numbers mean?”

“What is UMF?”

“What is MGO?”

“Why is this honey different from regular honey?”

You’re not alone.

Manuka honey appears to be straightforward. However, there’s a lot more to it than meets the eye. A lot more. Manuka honey is, in fact, worlds apart from regular honey. That’s one of the reasons it has become so popular with customers in the United States of America.

This guide is for people who want the truth without all the science. No complicated terms. No confusing graphs. Just straightforward information so you can learn about Manuka honey, UMF, MGO, and how to pick the right strength for your needs.

Let’s begin at the beginning.

Browse our range of certified Manuka honey to see the different strengths of UMF and MGO.

What Is Manuka Honey?

Manuka honey is a special type of honey made by bees that collect nectar from the Manuka plant.

The Manuka plant grows naturally in New Zealand and parts of Australia. When bees pollinate these flowers, they produce a honey that contains unique natural compounds not found in regular honey.

This is why Manuka honey has gained worldwide attention.

Unlike blended floral honeys, Manuka honey is valued because:

• It comes from a specific plant source
  
• It is tested for key natural markers
  
• It is graded for quality and authenticity
  

Not all honey labelled “Manuka” is equal. True Manuka honey must meet specific testing standards. That is where UMF and MGO come in.

Why Manuka Honey Is Different From Regular Honey

Regular honey is great. It’s sweet, comforting, and perfect for everyday use.
But Manuka honey plays in a slightly different league.

Here’s why:

1. It Naturally Contains MGO

Manuka honey contains a natural compound called MGO, which forms from DHA found in Manuka flower nectar. Most regular honeys only have tiny traces of this, if any.

2. It’s Independently Tested

Real Manuka honey isn’t just trusted on name alone. It’s tested by independent labs to confirm its natural markers and purity.

3. It Uses Recognised Grading Systems

Labels like UMF and MGO aren’t marketing buzzwords. They’re grading systems that help you understand the honey’s strength and authenticity.

Simply put, regular honey usually doesn’t go through this level of testing or certification. That extra care is what makes Manuka honey stand out.

Understanding Manuka Honey UMF

UMF stands for Unique Manuka Factor.

It is a recognised grading system that verifies whether a honey is genuine Manuka and whether it meets quality standards.

What UMF Certification Measures

UMF certification checks multiple natural markers, including:

• MGO (Methylglyoxal)
  
• Leptosperin
  
• DHA
  

Together, these markers confirm:

• The honey is true Manuka
  
• The honey is pure
  
• The honey meets quality standards
  

What UMF Numbers Mean

UMF ratings are shown as numbers with a plus sign, such as:

• UMF 5+
  
• UMF 10+
  
• UMF 15+
  
• UMF 20+
  

Higher UMF numbers indicate higher concentrations of key markers.

In simple terms:

Higher UMF = Higher verified strength

Browse our UMF-certified Manuka honey collection to compare different grades.

What Is MGO in Manuka Honey?

MGO is an abbreviation for Methylglyoxal, which is one of the primary natural components of Manuka honey.

What Does the MGO Number Represent?

The MGO number represents the level of MGO in every kilogram of honey in milligrams.

For example:

• MGO 50+ represents that the honey has a minimum of 50 mg/kg of MGO
• MGO 400+ represents that the honey has a minimum of 400 mg/kg of MGO
• MGO 1000+ represents that the honey has a minimum of 1000 mg/kg of MGO
• The greater the MGO number, the greater the level.

Why MGO Is Shown on Jars

MGO is very easy to understand and measure. In fact, many people use it as a quick guide when comparing.

UMF vs MGO: What’s the Difference?

This is one of the most common questions.

Here is the simple explanation:

• UMF = Complete certification system
  
• MGO = Measurement of one compound
  

UMF looks at multiple natural markers.
MGO focuses only on Methylglyoxal.

Both systems are useful.

If a jar shows both UMF and MGO, it provides stronger reassurance about authenticity and quality.

How Manuka Honey Is Tested and Certified

Before genuine Manuka honey is marketed, it is submitted to independent testing labs.

These labs:

• Determine the level of MGO
• Test other natural indicators
• Verify authenticity

Only honey meeting specified levels can be labeled with genuine UMF or MGO ratings.

What Is Considered Good Quality Manuka Honey?

Good quality Manuka honey usually has:

• Clear UMF or MGO rating
• Batch or lot tracking
• Country of origin listed
• Transparent labelling

If a jar does not show any grading system, it becomes difficult to verify authenticity.

How to Choose the Right Manuka Honey Strength

There is no “best” strength that suits all people.

It depends on how you intend to use it and your personal preference.

Low Strength Manuka Honey (UMF 5+ / MGO 50+)

• Mild taste
• Smooth texture
• Suitable for daily consumption

Mid Strength Manuka Honey (UMF 10+ to UMF 15+)

• Stronger taste
• Balanced strength

High Strength Manuka Honey (UMF 20+ and above)

• Stronger taste
• High-quality grades

Some people begin with lower strength and gradually increase as they progress.

Unsure of which strength is for you? Try out different strengths and pick the one that suits you.

Multifloral vs Monofloral Manuka Honey

What Is Multifloral Manuka Honey?

Multifloral Manuka honey is a combination of Manuka nectar and other regional wildflowers.

It contains Manuka properties but to a lesser extent.

What Is Monofloral Manuka Honey?

Monofloral Manuka honey is primarily composed of Manuka nectar and has stricter criteria for its markers.

Easy Difference

• Multifloral = less strong
• Monofloral = more Manuka
• Both are genuine.

Common Ways People Enjoy Manuka Honey

One of the best things about Manuka honey is that it is very easy to use. There is no complicated preparation, no special instructions, and no rules. Most people just find a way that they like best and do that. This is true for people enjoying Manuka honey across America and around the world.

Some of the ways that people like to use Manuka honey include:

• Eating a spoonful right out of the jar
• Mixing it with warm tea, lemon water, or herbal drinks
• Smearing it on toast, oatmeal, yogurt, or porridge
• Mixing a little bit in smoothies or breakfast bowls
• Using it in a homemade skincare routine

Most people start out using very small amounts to see how they like the taste and texture. Manuka honey that is not as strong has a smoother texture, which is why it is so popular to use on a daily basis.

There is no right or wrong way to use Manuka honey. The best way is the one that works well in your daily routine.

How to Store Manuka Honey

Manuka honey is self-preserving, which means that it can be stored without any problems without the need for refrigeration.

To store Manuka honey and maintain its quality:

• Store at room temperature
• Keep the lid tightly closed
• Store the jar away from direct sunlight
• Avoid storing the jar near heat sources

You may notice that Manuka honey thickens or crystallizes over time. This is a perfectly normal process and will not affect the quality of the honey. If you notice that the honey is too thick, you can place the jar in a warm water bath for a short period of time to loosen it.

If Manuka honey is stored properly, it will maintain its quality for a long time.

Why Authenticity Matters When Buying Manuka Honey

Because Manuka honey is highly valued, it is important to be careful about what you buy.

Not every product labelled “Manuka” meets proper standards.

Choosing certified honey helps ensure:

• You are purchasing genuine Manuka honey
  
• The strength shown on the label is verified
  
• The honey has been independently tested
  
• Quality and purity requirements are met
  

Looking for UMF or MGO grading on the label is one of the easiest ways to identify authentic Manuka honey. These grading systems give extra reassurance that what you are buying has been properly evaluated.

Where to Buy Authentic Manuka Honey

Typically, Authentic Manuka Honey can be sourced from the following places:

• Reputable online stores
• Official websites of brands
• Specialty stores for health and wellness

For customers in the USA, it is convenient for many people to purchase their Manuka honey online because they get to choose from a wide range of UMF and MGO levels. Online stores also offer information regarding the certification of the product.

Buy certified Manuka Honey from our online store and choose your grade.

Final Thoughts: Is Manuka Honey Worth Trying?

Manuka honey is more than just another honey.

It is a honey that has been tested and graded, and has natural properties that make it different from other honeys. Once you understand what UMF and MGO mean, it is no longer confusing to choose the right Manuka honey.

Some people may start with a gentle and daily Manuka honey. Others may start with a higher grade of Manuka honey. Both are perfectly fine.

The most important thing is to choose the right Manuka honey and a grade that fits well within your lifestyle.

Browse our range of Manuka honey and choose the grade that suits you.

FAQs

1. Is all Manuka honey the same?
   • No. Manuka honey varies by strength, grading system, and certification. Two jars may both be Manuka honey but have very different UMF or MGO ratings.
     
2. Does higher MGO mean better?
   • Higher MGO indicates a higher concentration of methylglyoxal. However, the best choice depends on personal preference, intended use, and budget.
     
     
3. Can Manuka honey crystallize?
   • Yes. Crystallization is natural for real honey and does not mean the product has gone bad.
     
     
4. How long does Manuka honey last?
   • When stored properly, Manuka honey has a long shelf life and maintains its quality over time.
     
     
5. Where can I buy authentic Manuka honey in the USA?
   • Authentic Manuka honey in the USA is commonly available through trusted online stores, official brand websites, and specialty health retailers. Many customers choose to purchase directly from Down Under Honey’s online store, where certified Manuka honey with clear UMF and MGO ratings is available.