MGO to UMF Calculator
Convert between MGO (methylglyoxal, mg/kg) and UMF (Unique Manuka Factor) ratings, and see what each potency tier is actually used for. Calculation uses the UMFHA equivalence formula.
MGO
400 mg/kg
UMF
9.0
Moderate potency
Reliable antibacterial activity. Best value tier for wellness.
- Daily wellness
- Sore throat soother
- Mild digestive support
Full conversion table
| UMF | MGO | Tier |
|---|---|---|
| 5+ | 83+ | Mild |
| 10+ | 263+ | Moderate |
| 15+ | 514+ | High |
| 20+ | 829+ | Premium |
| 25+ | 1200+ | Ultra |
How the calculation works
UMF tests four compounds (MGO, leptosperin, DHA, HMF). MGO tests one. The conversion between them is published by the UMF Honey Association as approximately UMF = sqrt((MGO + 5.45) / 5). So an MGO 263 jar matches roughly UMF 10, and an MGO 514 jar matches roughly UMF 15.
Treat the result as a guide rather than a guarantee. A UMF-certified jar has had all four markers tested by an independent lab. An MGO-only jar has had one. They are not equally rigorous, even at the same equivalent number.