What is the Best Manuka Honey? A Comprehensive Buyer's Guide

October 5, 2025 •

3 min read

Statistics indicate that a significant number of products claiming to be Manuka honey are counterfeit, lacking proper certification. Navigating the world of ratings and sourcing is crucial for anyone seeking the real deal and its powerful, unique benefits.

Quick Summary

A definitive guide to selecting the finest Manuka honey, covering the crucial UMF and MGO rating systems, verifying authenticity, and matching potency to specific uses for health and wellness.

Key Points

UMF is the gold standard: For certified authenticity and potency, look for the UMF trademark and license number on the label, which tests for multiple markers beyond MGO.
MGO indicates potency: The MGO number on a jar measures the concentration of methylglyoxal, the key antibacterial compound; higher numbers mean stronger honey.
Origin matters for authenticity: Genuine Manuka honey is produced and packaged exclusively in New Zealand; check for this on the label to avoid fakes.
Choose the right grade for your needs: Lower grades (UMF 5-10) are good for daily wellness, while higher grades (UMF 15+ and up) are best for targeted therapeutic uses like wound care.
Avoid vague labels: Be wary of products with unverified terms like 'Active' or 'Bio-Active,' which lack the independent testing and standards of UMF or reliable MGO ratings.

The Origins and Unique Properties of Manuka Honey

Manuka honey originates from the nectar of the Manuka tree (Leptospermum scoparium) found in New Zealand and Australia. Its unique therapeutic properties stem from a high concentration of methylglyoxal (MGO), providing stable antibacterial activity not typically found in other honeys. Other significant compounds include Leptosperin and Dihydroxyacetone (DHA).

Decoding Manuka Honey Ratings: UMF vs. MGO

Understanding the grading systems is essential for choosing quality Manuka honey. The primary systems are UMF and MGO.

UMF (Unique Manuka Factor)

The UMF™ certification is a comprehensive system verifying the honey's authenticity, purity, quality, and potency. Managed by the UMFHA in New Zealand, it tests for four key markers: MGO, Leptosperin, DHA, and HMF (hydroxymethylfurfural, a freshness indicator). A UMF™ trademark and license number on the label confirm that the honey has met these strict standards. UMF ratings typically range from 5+ to over 20+.

MGO (Methylglyoxal)

The MGO rating specifically measures the amount of methylglyoxal (in mg/kg) in the honey. While MGO is crucial for antibacterial activity, this rating alone doesn't guarantee authenticity or rule out overheating. Many brands include both UMF and MGO ratings for greater transparency.

Other Labels to Approach with Caution

Avoid relying solely on terms like K-Factor, "Active," "Bio-Active," or NPA (Non-Peroxide Activity) as they do not offer the comprehensive verification of a UMF rating and may not accurately reflect stable antibacterial activity.

Identifying Genuine Manuka Honey

To ensure you are purchasing authentic Manuka honey and not a counterfeit product, look for these key indicators:

New Zealand Origin: All UMF-certified Manuka honey is processed, packed, and labeled in New Zealand.
Traceability: Many reputable brands provide batch information or a QR code linked to independent lab results.
Reputable Brands: Established brands such as Comvita, Manuka Health, Egmont, and New Zealand Honey Co. are known for their UMF-certified products.
Price Point: Genuine Manuka honey's rarity and stringent certification contribute to its higher cost. Be skeptical of unusually low prices.

Manuka Honey Grade Comparison Table


UMF Rating	Approx. MGO Range	Typical Uses & Benefits
UMF 5+ to 9+	83+ to 260+	Everyday wellness, general immune and digestive support.
UMF 10+ to 15+	263+ to 514+	Moderate therapeutic strength, daily health support, minor skin issues.
UMF 16+ to 20+	575+ to 829+	Superior potency, targeted health needs, wound healing, advanced skincare.
UMF 20+ and above	829+ and higher	Ultra-premium, maximum therapeutic benefits (consult healthcare provider for serious conditions).

Uses for Different Manuka Honey Grades

Select the appropriate grade based on your needs:

Daily Wellness: Lower grades (UMF 5+ to 10+ or MGO 83+ to 260+) are suitable for adding to food or drinks (avoid high heat) or taking daily.
Sore Throats & Coughs: Mid-range grades like UMF 15+ or MGO 514+ can offer relief due to antibacterial and anti-inflammatory effects.
Digestive Health: Mid-to-high grades (UMF 15+ or 20+) may help support gut health.
Topical Use: Higher UMF grades (15+ to 20+ or MGO 514+ and up) are best for minor cuts, burns, or acne treatments due to strong antibacterial action.
Energy: Manuka honey can provide a natural energy boost; a mid-grade is suitable.

Conclusion: Making the Best Choice for You

The optimal Manuka honey for you depends on its intended application and your budget. Prioritize authenticity by choosing UMF-certified products for reliable quality and potency. Lower UMF grades are practical for general wellness, while higher grades are recommended for specific therapeutic uses. By understanding the certification systems and identifying genuine products, you can confidently select the best Manuka honey to meet your requirements.

For additional details on Manuka honey and its unique properties, refer to reputable sources such as the UMF Honey Association. UMFHA Guide

Frequently Asked Questions

UMF is a comprehensive certification that tests for four key markers (MGO, Leptosperin, DHA, and HMF) to guarantee authenticity, potency, and freshness. MGO measures only the methylglyoxal concentration, providing a reliable but less complete picture of the honey's quality.

To ensure you buy authentic Manuka honey, look for a certified UMF trademark with a license number, check that it is produced and packed in New Zealand, and consider buying from reputable brands that offer traceability.

For soothing a sore throat, a mid-range UMF grade, such as UMF 15+, or an equivalent MGO rating (around 514+), is effective due to its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties.

Yes, Manuka honey has been used for centuries for wound healing due to its potent antibacterial properties. For topical applications on minor cuts or burns, a higher UMF grade (15+ or above) is recommended for superior therapeutic strength.

Not necessarily. Higher MGO indicates greater antibacterial potency, which is valuable for therapeutic applications. However, a lower grade might be better suited and more cost-effective for general daily wellness. The 'best' rating depends on your specific use.

Manuka honey is expensive because of its rarity, its limited supply due to the short Manuka flowering season in remote New Zealand areas, and the rigorous testing and certification processes required to guarantee its unique properties and authenticity.

For most people, Manuka honey is safe in moderation. However, it should not be given to children under one year old due to the risk of infant botulism. Individuals with diabetes should monitor their blood sugar, and those with bee allergies should be cautious.