MGO to UMF Calculator
Compare an MGO label (methylglyoxal, mg/kg) with the published UMF (Unique Manuka Factor) thresholds, and see which grade band it sits in. Calculation uses the UMFHA equivalence formula.
MGO
400 mg/kg
UMF
9.0
Mid grade band
The most widely stocked band for monofloral Manuka. Middle of the price range.
- Everyday use
- Smoothies and drinks
- Common gifting grade
This compares an entered MGO label with published UMF MGO thresholds. It is not a conversion, a certification, or a prediction of a product's UMF grade. UMF certification tests multiple markers; a single MGO number does not establish it.
Full conversion table
| UMF | MGO | Tier |
|---|---|---|
| 5+ | 83+ | Entry |
| 10+ | 263+ | Mid |
| 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 equivalence between them is published by the UMF Honey Association as approximately UMF = sqrt((MGO + 5.45) / 5). So an MGO 263 label sits at the UMF 10 threshold, and an MGO 514 label sits at the UMF 15 threshold. This is a reference comparison, not a conversion: a single MGO number does not establish a UMF certification.
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. For the conceptual comparison of when each system makes sense and which brands use which, see our UMF vs MGO breakdown.