There is no doubt that honey is a super food. But even in this prestigious category, Manuka is special. What makes it so distinctive is its unique composition. Rich with methylglyoxal (MGO) and dihydroxyacetone (DHA), Manuka reports anti-bacterial and anti-inflammatory properties that are stronger than other honeys. Although MGO and DHA are not exclusive to Manuka honey, the specific combination of the manuka flower's nectar, bee enzymes, and the unique conditions in New Zealand and Australia, results in significantly higher levels of these compounds. But for the lay person, what does all this mean? To help consumers navigate the diverse world of manuka honey, two prominent grading systems—UMF (Unique Manuka Factor) and MGO—are employed to quantify and communicate the honey's potency.
UMF (Unique Manuka Factor):
Developed by the UMF Honey Association (UMFHA), and introduced in the early nineties, the UMF grading system is the gold standard for assessing the quality and authenticity of Manuka honey. UMF considers multiple factors, including MGO and DHA levels, as well as Leptosperin as a marker of authenticity, Hydroxymethylfurfural (HMF) as a sign of quality and freshness, and grade, colour and region.
The UMF scale ranges from UMF 5+ to UMF 20+ and beyond, with each level signifying an incremental increase in the concentration of beneficial compounds. A UMF rating of 5+ indicates a moderate level of active compounds, suitable for general well-being and consumption, while UMF 20+ boasts an exceptionally high concentration of bioactive compounds, making it ideal for therapeutic use. Achieving a higher UMF rating is no small thing. It requires meticulous hive management, sustainable beekeeping practices, and a pristine environment that allows the bees to exclusively forage on the manuka bush.
MGO (Methylglyoxal):
MGO, the powerhouse compound responsible for the antibacterial prowess of manuka honey forms the basis of an alternative grading system. However, as this grading system is primarily a measure of the concentration of MGO, it isn’t as comprehensive as UMF. It is also not associated with a specific governing body or authority in the same way that the UMF is. The MGO scale measures the concentration of methylglyoxal in milligrams per kilogram [mg/kg] and is often indicated prominently on honey labels. The most common ratings are MGO 30+, MGO 100+, MGO 250+, and MGO 400+.
Choosing the Right Grade
Selecting the right manuka honey grade depends on individual preferences and intended use. After all, you don’t require a Ferrari to pick up milk form the local store. Those seeking a daily supplement for general well-being may find lower UMF or MGO ratings suitable. For therapeutic purposes or addressing specific health concerns, higher UMF or MGO ratings are recommended. The diverse manuka honey grading systems offer consumers a reliable guide to the honey's potency and quality. Whether opting for UMF or MGO, each grade represents a blend of nature, beekeeping expertise, and sustainable practices.
