Independent Manuka Honey Testing

Independent Manuka Honey Testing

Verified Authenticity. Certified Quality. Trusted Transparency.

At Mountain Gold Manuka, every batch of our Manuka honey is independently tested by an accredited laboratory in New Zealand. This comprehensive testing ensures our honey meets all New Zealand export standards and provides absolute confidence in its purity, authenticity, and quality.

While each batch undergoes a wide range of analytical tests, we present the most important verified information clearly on every jar, allowing our customers to make informed and confident purchasing decisions.

Methylglyoxal (MGO) Testing

One of the defining compounds in genuine New Zealand Manuka honey is Methylglyoxal (MGO). MGO is measured in milligrams per kilogram (mg/kg) and directly correlates with the UMF™ (Unique Manuka Factor) grading system.

MGO occurs naturally in Manuka honey at significantly higher levels than in other honeys.

  • Manuka honey: at least 50 mg/kg of MGO

  • Most other honeys: typically 0–5 mg/kg of MGO

Independent laboratory testing allows us to guarantee the stated MGO levels and confidently confirm that all of our Manuka honey is genuine New Zealand Manuka honey.

UMF™ Grading System & MGO Levels

The UMF™ grading system reflects increasing levels of Manuka’s unique natural compounds. The corresponding minimum MGO levels for each UMF™ grade are:

  • UMF™ 5+ — MGO 83+ mg/kg

  • UMF™ 10+ — MGO 263+ mg/kg

  • UMF™ 15+ — MGO 514+ mg/kg

  • UMF™ 20+ — MGO 829+ mg/kg

  • UMF™ 22+ — MGO 1000+ mg/kg

  • UMF™ 25+ — MGO 1202+ mg/kg

Each increase in UMF™ grade represents a higher concentration of naturally occurring Manuka compounds.

UMF™ Certified Manuka Honey

UMF™ (Unique Manuka Factor) is an internationally recognised quality mark and trusted standard for authentic Manuka honey.

Every batch of UMF™ Mountain Gold Manuka Honey must pass strict testing requirements before it is permitted to carry the UMF™ logo. The UMF™ mark is independently monitored by the UMF® Honey Association (UMFHA), which oversees:

  • Quality

  • Purity

  • Authenticity

In addition to routine verification, the UMFHA conducts random sampling and auditing to ensure all Manuka honey carrying the UMF™ mark remains true to label.

Importantly, the UMF™ testing process is the only system that measures all three signature Manuka compounds:

  • Methylglyoxal (MGO)

  • DHA

  • Leptosperin

Together, these markers confirm the authenticity, purity, and true Manuka origin of the honey.

Our Guarantee

  • Independently laboratory tested in New Zealand

  • Certified to meet New Zealand export standards

  • UMF™ certified where applicable

  • Clearly graded and transparently labelled

  • 100% genuine New Zealand Manuka Honey

For further information on UMF™ grading and the UMF® quality mark, please visit the official UMF® Honey Association website.

 

UMF™ grade Manuka Honey

UMF grade Manuka Honey