When Manuka Labels Mislead: Why the Highest Number Isn’t Always the Best Choice

Not all Manuka honeys are created equal—and that number on the jar may not mean what you think. Here’s what really matters when choosing the right one for your needs.

Why Numbers on Manuka Honey Cause So Much Confusion

Manuka honey isn’t just a trend—it’s a staple in many Australian households, used for everything from soothing sore throats to supporting gut health and skincare. But despite its growing popularity, most shoppers are still puzzled by what the numbers on the jar actually mean.

Walk into any health food store or scroll through an online wellness shop, and you’ll see terms like UMF 15+, MGO 550, or “Active Manuka Honey” everywhere. The natural reaction? Assume the higher the number, the better the product. But that’s not always true—and it’s where many people, even well-intentioned buyers, get it wrong.

The problem isn’t the honey. It’s the labeling—and understanding what’s behind it is the first step to choosing Manuka that truly delivers.

What Most People Don’t Know About Manuka Ratings

There are two main systems used to grade Manuka honey: UMF and MGO. Both aim to measure the honey’s strength, but they do it in very different ways.

• MGO (Methylglyoxal) focuses solely on the level of one compound—methylglyoxal—which is responsible for Manuka’s powerful antibacterial activity.
• UMF (Unique Manuka Factor) takes a broader approach. It not only considers MGO, but also tests for leptosperin (a natural marker that confirms it’s genuine Manuka), DHA (a precursor to MGO), and other supporting compounds. It’s a trademarked, third-party-verified system developed in New Zealand.

That’s why comparing UMF vs MGO Manuka honey isn’t as simple as it sounds. A jar labeled MGO 550 doesn’t automatically equal UMF 20+—they’re using two different measuring sticks. And unless a brand clearly provides a conversion or explanation, shoppers are left guessing.

A Real Example from Parramatta: How One Buyer Got It Wrong

Take the case of Anika S., a 47-year-old school administrator living in Parramatta. Anika began using Manuka honey to support her immune system after a series of seasonal colds left her feeling worn down. She picked up a jar labeled “MGO 300+” from a well-known supermarket chain along Church Street, assuming she was buying something strong enough to help.

But after several weeks of daily use, she didn’t notice much of a change. Curious—and a little frustrated—Anika brought the jar to a local naturopath near Parramatta Westfield. After a quick explanation, she learned that MGO 300 roughly translates to UMF 10+, which is considered a mild level more suitable for general well-being rather than therapeutic use.

She had paid almost as much as she would’ve for a higher-strength, UMF-certified jar from a local producer—one that’s frequently listed among the best Australian Manuka honey brands. Once she made the switch to a UMF 20+ variety from a NSW-based apiary, she noticed stronger results: better energy, improved digestion, and fewer flare-ups from her mild sinus issues.

Her story shows that knowing the label isn’t just useful—it’s essential.

So, Which Rating Should You Trust—UMF or MGO?

The answer depends on what you’re using the honey for.

If you’re buying Manuka to sweeten tea or toast, a lower MGO or UMF number is perfectly fine. But if your goal is something more specific—like managing digestive inflammation, healing a wound, or boosting immune function—you’ll want something stronger.

Here’s how they generally compare:

• MGO 100 ≈ UMF 6+
• MGO 250 ≈ UMF 10+
• MGO 400 ≈ UMF 13+
• MGO 550 ≈ UMF 16+
• MGO 829 ≈ UMF 20+

UMF ratings offer added peace of mind because they include additional quality checks and are verified by independent labs. You’re not just getting a number—you’re getting assurance of origin, purity, and consistency.

Tips for Making the Right Choice

If you want to shop with confidence, keep these points in mind:

• Check for certification: Look for the UMF™ quality trademark or clearly stated MGO content. Trusted brands provide test results or QR codes to verify the honey’s authenticity.
• Know your purpose: For daily use, MGO 100+ or UMF 5+ is fine. For immune support or topical healing, go for MGO 500+ or UMF 15+ and above.
• Look beyond the number: Does the label mention batch testing? Origin? Processing methods? If not, the number may not tell the full story.
• Support local when possible: Some of the best Australian Manuka honey producers are small, regional apiaries that prioritize transparency, quality, and sustainability.

These producers often display both UMF and MGO for clarity and take extra care to ensure the honey remains raw, unblended, and potent.

What Sets Australian Manuka Apart

Australia is home to over 80 species of Leptospermum, the plant that gives Manuka its unique antibacterial properties. Unlike New Zealand, which uses one species, Australian producers work with several high-MGO strains native to regions like New South Wales and Tasmania.

This natural variety gives Australian Manuka a broader flavor profile and, in many cases, a higher natural potency. Local brands often emphasize purity and small-batch production, and many are now winning awards on the global stage.

When shopping for Manuka, it’s worth seeking out those regional names that consistently appear in best Australian Manuka honey lists—not just because they’re high quality, but because they care about educating their customers.

The Bottom Line: Know What You’re Buying

When you see a Manuka label with a big number, pause before you purchase. Ask what that number actually represents, and whether it fits your intended use. MGO tells you one thing; UMF tells you more. And knowing the difference can mean the difference between wasting money and getting real results.

More importantly, don’t assume one system is automatically better—it’s about understanding how each one works and choosing accordingly. If a jar includes both UMF and MGO, even better—it means the brand is giving you the full picture.

Still Unsure? Don’t Rely on the Label Alone

There’s no shame in feeling overwhelmed by labels, ratings, and product claims. Even seasoned health-conscious shoppers get caught up in the numbers game. But you don’t have to guess. You can make confident choices by slowing down, asking the right questions, and learning what those bold numbers truly mean.