Which Mānuka Honey Grade is Best For Your Business?

If you’ve ever looked at a jar of Mānuka honey, you’ve probably noticed a sticker on the label with a particular grade like MGO or UMF™. The letters and numbers might seem confusing, but they exist to help you make an informed choice on which type of Mānuka honey is best suited for your business. 

The different grades are an indication of the different strengths of each jar - whether it’s the potency, level of antibacterial properties or the authenticity of the product. Selecting the right grade of Mānuka honey can make all the difference to your purchase. 

So, whether you need specialty products for daily health, skincare or consumption, we’re here to break down what these grades mean, why they matter and how to pick the right grade of Mānuka honey for you. 

As a private-label and bulk honey supplier, PURITI understands the challenge your business faces when choosing the right Mānuka honey for your needs. Whether it’s deciphering grades or ensuring the honey’s quality is consistent, we take pride in making it easy for your brand to succeed in a competitive market.

It all begins with a deep understanding of the product. Let’s take a closer look at the different grades of Mānuka.

 

What Are MGO and UMF™?

The grades you find on the jars of Mānuka Honey can be tricky to understand at first, but they’re essential for knowing exactly what you’re getting in each product. 

There are two main grading systems: 

• MGO (methylglyoxal)

• UMF™ (unique Mānuka factor)

Methylglyoxal is an organic compound that naturally forms in Mānuka honey. It was first discovered within Mānuka back in 1981, scientists realised it was the key ingredient that made Mānuka such a unique product. 

Research has since suggested there are potential links between MGO concentrations and antibacterial properties within Mānuka honey. In 2011, a study concluded that MGO did, indeed, play a role in preventing certain bacterial growth. In other words, the MGO grade measures the potency of antibacterial benefits that the honey provides. 

For more information on this, visit - The Role of Mānuka Honey in Modern Medicine.

On the other hand, UMF™ is a more comprehensive certification that takes into account more factors than the other grading systems will. It’s the only system that independently verifies all the elements that make New Zealand Mānuka honey unique. 

While many people focus only on methylglyoxal (MGO), UMF™ is a more comprehensive assessment of the product. There are four key markers that determine the UMF™ grade:

 

Leptosperin

Leptosperin determines the authenticity of Mānuka honey. A unique compound found solely within the nectar of the Mānuka flower, it’s the DNA marker that validates genuine honey. 

Methylglyoxal (MGO)

Methylglyoxal determines the potency of Mānuka honey - it’s these levels that are often sufficient for many Mānuka honey buyers to feel confident in their purchase.

Dihydroxyacetone (DHA)

Dihydroxyacetone determines the shelf-life of Mānuka honey. This biochemical is the precursor to MGO and will gradually convert to MGO over time. The higher the concentration of DHA, the longer the life of the MGO will be maintained. 

Hydroxymethylfurfural (HMF)

Hydroxymethylfurfural determines the freshness of Mānuka honey. This heat-sensitive compound is an essential factor in determining the quality of Mānuka honey, as it assures the customer that the honey hasn't been stored for too long or processed. 

 

Nearly every important aspect that makes up Mānuka honey can be measured using this system, which is why Midlands considers UMF™ to be the most solid and robust method for grading, certifying, and validating monofloral Mānuka honey. 

Each Mānuka honey product with the UMF™ trademark must pass stringent quality, grading, and rating tests from the Unique Mānuka Factor Honey Association (UMFHA). 

As UMF™ is the only standard that independently tests the quality of New Zealand Mānuka honey, it reassures consumers worldwide of the strength and purity of each jar they buy. 

In our case, you can be assured that every jar of Mānuka honey that Midlands produces is certified and validated to UMF™ standards - regardless of whether the jar displays the UMF™ certification or not. 

As a private-label manufacturer and bulk supplier, we’d work closely with you to select the perfect grade of Mānuka honey to meet your product requirements and market expectations.

Every jar of honey that we supply is backed by independent testing and certification, giving you confidence that your customers receive only the highest-quality Mānuka honey, free from impurities and compliant with global standards, irrespective of grade.

 

Different Mānuka Honey Grades for Different Uses

 

Whether you're launching a new private-label product or scaling up your operation with bulk honey as an ingredient, PURITI has the resources and expertise to support your success. 

Each grade of Mānuka honey we offer has unique qualities, allowing your business to meet the specific needs of your customers. 

Let’s explore the different grades you could choose from.

 

UMF™ 5+ to 10+: Everyday Wellness & Food Applications 

Key Value for Businesses: A cheaper alternative for brands wanting to provide affordable wellness products.

UMF™ 5+ and 10+ grades are perfect for daily wellness and general use, offering a gentle boost to support a healthier lifestyle. These grades are perfect for health-conscious consumers, they could be used as a natural sweetener, health snack, or incorporated in a meal.

A study by Stephens et al. (2010) highlighted a link between lower-grade Mānuka honey and general immune support, making it an excellent choice for everyday health products.

Here are a few ways that UMF™ 5+ and 10+ grades could be used in a commercial setting:

• Retail

• Jarred honey sold in supermarkets under private-label or mid-tier branding, aimed at health-conscious everyday consumers.

• Food & Beverage Industry

• Used as a natural sweetener in health-conscious foods, cereals, and granola bars.

• An ingredient in premium teas, smoothies, and beverages for added health benefits.

• Incorporation into functional foods marketed for general immunity and gut health.

• Health & Wellness

• Often included in wellness-oriented formulations aimed at supporting immunity.

• Products marketed for a daily energy booster or digestive support.

 

These grades are ideal for:

• Grocery Retailers: Offering affordable Mānuka honey products for everyday consumers.

• Health Food Brands: Adding a functional yet cost-effective ingredient to their product lines.

• Small Wellness Startups: Launching accessible health products, such as syrups or snacks, targeting budget-conscious buyers.

• Food & Beverage Manufacturers: Incorporating Mānuka into teas, cereals, or granola bars for natural sweetness and beneficial properties.

 

UMF™ 10+ to 15+: Mid-Grade Health & Skincare Applications

Key Value for Businesses: Balanced potency and price, ideal for products that promise enhanced health benefits without a steep cost.

If you’re seeking a more potent product that supports everyday health, the UMF™ 10+ and 15+ Mānuka products are a better fit. Studies have suggested that Mānuka products with such UMF™ grades offer better support for immune systems and work well for minor injuries - like cuts and scrapes when directly applied to the skin. 

A study by  Molan (2009) demonstrated the antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties of mid-grade Mānuka honey, highlighting its potential for both health and skincare applications. The honey’s bioactive compounds make it a sought-after ingredient in premium skincare formulations.

These grades balance affordability with higher concentrations of bioactive properties that have been linked to antibacterial activity in  many studies, making them versatile for both personal and commercial use. 

Here are some examples:

• Retail

• Jarred honey sold in upscale grocery stores and organic markets, focusing on functional health benefits and natural properties.

• Healthcare & Pharmaceuticals

• Used in throat lozenges, cough syrups, and immunity boosters.

• Incorporation into wound care products or oral sprays targeting mild to moderate conditions.

• Skincare & Cosmetics

• Found in natural skincare products like face masks, creams, and cleansers for acne-prone skin and general hydration.

• Promoted as an ingredient in lip balms or moisturisers for its emollient properties.

• Hospitality Industry

• Premium offering in spa treatments, such as face or body wraps that incorporate Manuka honey for its antibacterial and soothing qualities.

 

These grades are best suited for:

• Premium Grocery Stores: Selling functional health products targeting more health-conscious shoppers.

• Health and Wellness Brands: Developing immunity-boosting lozenges, tonics, or dietary supplements.

• Natural Skincare Companies: Crafting acne treatments, face masks, or lip balms that leverage Mānuka’s properties.

• Spa and Hospitality Businesses: Offering therapeutic treatments like Mānuka-infused wraps or facials to attract upscale customers.

 

UMF™ 20+ to 25+: High Grade Health, Medical & Specialised Skincare

Key Value for Businesses: Positioned as a premium product, ideal for businesses targeting niche health and wellness markets.

If you’re looking for a Mānuka honey product that brings a bit more impact for health support, perhaps to combat a cold or soothe a sore throat, you may prefer a Mānuka honey product of at least UMF™ 20+. 

Atrott and Henle (2009) found a direct correlation between MGO content and antibacterial effectiveness, reinforcing the value of high-grade Mānuka honey for therapeutic applications. 

With MGO levels exceeding 826+, these grades are associated with higher concentrations of bioactive compounds, which have been studied for their antibacterial activities. This has them sought after for soothing sore throats, combating colds, and enhancing therapeutic products.

In fact, there’s now a rising demand for therapeutic-grade Manuka honey in the health and wellness industry - which makes these grades ideal for businesses seeking to offer premium solutions.

These grades are sought after for more potent therapeutic uses, making them suitable for niche health applications and advanced skincare.

• Retail

• Jarred honey for specialty health and wellness sections.

• Giftable items packaged in premium jars or as part of gift sets targeting health-conscious consumers during holidays or special occasions.

• Medical Field

• Used in certified wound-care dressings incorporating Mānuka honey.

• Added to ointments or gels for treating burns, cuts, and skin ulcers.

• Specialised Skincare

• Key ingredient in anti-aging serums or intensive repair creams for luxury skincare products aimed at consumers seeking natural ingredients.

• Marketed as a premium treatment in luxury cosmetic brands.

• Functional Foods & Beverages

• Used in high-end health drinks or supplements aimed at improving gut health or addressing inflammation.

• Inclusion in niche markets like pet wellness products (e.g., supplements or topical treatments for animals).

These grades are perfect for:

• Luxury Health and Wellness Brands: Creating premium supplements or honey jars for discerning customers.

• Pharmaceutical Companies: Manufacturing wound care dressings, oral sprays, or medical-grade ointments.

• Luxury Skincare Brands: Formulating intensive repair creams and serums for anti-aging or severe skin conditions.

• Specialised Retailers: Stocking rare, high-grade honey as a standout product for an elite clientele.

 

UMF™ 31+: Premium Grade Medical & Speciality Applications

Key Value for Businesses: Designed for elite markets, these grades enable premium pricing strategies and reinforce brand prestige. 

Ultra-rare grades like UMF™ 31+ are more than just honey - they’re a symbol of luxury and exclusivity, designed to captivate premium customers who demand the very best. 

These ultra-premium grades represent the pinnacle of Mānuka honey production, with unmatched potency and rarity. Available only in small batches, grades over UMF™ 31+ cater to businesses targeting high-end customers or launching prestige product lines.

At Midlands, our range for these specialty products include:

• Puriti Mānuka UMF™ 31+ 250g

• Primal By Nature Mānuka UMF™ 32+ 250g

Ideal for businesses that value exclusivity and want to command premium pricing, these grades create an aura of luxury and rarity that few other products can match.

These grades are the most potent and are used for serious health conditions or luxury markets due to their exceptional properties.

• Elite Luxury Wellness 

• Offered as a premium ingredient in ultra-luxury wellness programs or exclusive spa treatments.

• Packaged in exclusive gift sets or limited-edition jars for high-end markets.

• Medical Field

• Utilised in hospitals and medical facilities.

• A key component in clinical trials or research related to antibacterial resistance.

• Scientific Research

• Studied for pharmaceutical innovations.

 

These grades cater to:

• High-End Luxury Brands: Developing exclusive, limited-edition honey products for premium markets.

• Elite Medical Facilities: Using certified medical-grade honey for advanced therapeutic applications.

• Scientific Research Institutions: Studying its properties for pharmaceutical advancements.

• Luxury Retailers: Offering Mānuka honey as a prestigious gift or collector's item for discerning customers.

Not sure which grade is best for your business? Contact us for expert advice and tailored solutions to meet your customers' needs.