The UMF grading system has two components which are expressed on any UMF licenced honey product:
- The label claim that it is Manuka
- The number – this represents three chemical markers that indicate the content of this honey to ensure purity and quality. This includes the key chemical markers DHA and MGO.
To receive a UMF® grading, a honey must have the presence of DHA (dihydroxyacetone), Methylglyoxal, and Leptosperin. The UMF® rating is a measure of the attributes and values that make up Manuka honey, and assures purity & quality.
| Methylglyoxal Level |
UMF® Grade |
| ≥83 mg/kg |
5+ |
| ≥263 mg/kg |
10+ |
| ≥514 mg/kg |
15+ |
| ≥573 mg/kg |
16+ |
| ≥696 mg/kg |
18+ |
| ≥829 mg/kg |
20+ |
| ≥1200 mg/kg |
25+ |
| ≥1449 mg/kg |
28+ |
