UMF and MGO

What is UMF?

Mānuka Honey Grading System

Mānuka Honey comes from the nectar of the flower of the Mānuka bush (Leptospermum scoparium) which is indigenous to New Zealand. It is the nectar and the bee that give this honey its unique properties. The number represents the unique signature compounds characteristic of this honey which ensures purity and quality. These include: the key markers of Leptosperin, DHA and Methylglyoxal (MGO).

Methylglyoxal (MGO)

MGO is the compound responsible for the unique properties of manuka honey and forms the basis of the UMF™ grading system.

Leptosperin

Leptosperin is also found in manuka nectar, and due to its unique abundance in manuka honey has been identified as the most discerning characteristic to distinguish manuka honey from other honey types.

Dihydroxyacetone (DHA)

DHA is in the nectar of manuka flowers and converts into MGO once the bees gather the nectar and turn it into honey.

What is MGO?

The amount of MGO in your Manuka honey is directly related to its potency.

 

MGO stands for methylglyoxal, the naturally occurring compound that makes Manuka honey so special. MGO is the magic ingredient in Manuka honey, a discovery long sought after in the science world.

Not all Manuka honey is created equal and MGO levels can vary greatly.  Every jar of Pryme Health MGO Manuka Honey is tested and certified for natural MGO content. The MGO number tells you how much MGO is in your jar of honey – simple.

UMF vs MGO

How the ratings compare