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. For the conceptual comparison of when each system makes sense and which brands use which, see our UMF vs MGO breakdown.