UMF Manuka Honey What IS Manuka Honey? Manuka Honey is a unique New Zealand honey from the Manuka tree (Leptospermum Scoparium), a native of New Zealand. Manuka Honey is widely regarded as the finest honey in the world with its unique properties being widely regarded by scientists and consumers alike. THE UMF Quality Mark The UMF quality mark and grading system appraises natural markers found in Manuka Honey, and assures purity and quality. Please see the UMF website at www.umfha.org.nz . To receive a UMF grading, the honey must contain the following markers: Dihydroxyacetone (DHA) DHA is a compound naturally present in Manuka flower nectar, and is a precursor to the development of MGO. Methylglyoxal (MGO) MGO is a naturally occurring unique chemical marker that is abundant in high quality Manuka honey. MGO is responsible for the antibacterial properties of honey which have been shown to be very effective when applied to non-healing and infected wounds in clinical situations. Leptosperin – This is a naturally-occurring compound found only in the nectar of Manuka and some closely-related plants. WHAT IS THE UMF GRADING SYSTEM BASED ON? The UMF grading system is currently related to the level of methylglyoxal MGO found in the honey for example: Methylglyoxal Level UMF® Grade =83 mg/kg 5+ =263 mg/kg 10+ =514 mg/kg 15+ =573 mg/kg 16+ =696 mg/kg 18+ =829 mg/kg 20+ =1200 mg/kg 25+ =1449 mg/kg 28+
