The UMF grading system appraises natural markers found in Manuka honey, and assures purity & quality. This is compliant with the recent interim labelling guidelines published by the Ministry for Primary Industries.
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+ |