There are a range of approaches. Each Manuka honey grading system is shown in the form of the numbers and symbols on the label that indicate particular qualities and levels. The most commonly used grading systems include: UMF™, MGO, and Active.
Active, NPA (non-peroxide activity) and UMF™ (unique manuka factor) ratings are used to describe the unique antimicrobial activity found in Manuka honey. These three grade systems are same, identifies and tested (corresponds directly to) for its phenol disinfectant equivalent. If a Manuka honey has an Active or NPA of 15+, then the UMF will be 15+.
UMF™ is a trademark registered by the UMF Honey Association of New Zealand, it only can be used by the licensed members of UMFHA.
MGO is another range of grading system. MGO measures the methylglyoxal in the Manuka honey. It is expressed as parts per million (ppm) or mg/kg.
All Oregan™ Manuka honey is independently tested and certified to ensure it meets the NZ government standard of Manuka honey before export. Oregan™ follows the the strictest and highes graded Manuka honey measurement system to measure all four chemical markers (Leptosperin test, Methylglyoxal test, DHA test, HMF test).
It is also required to tested with these 5 manuka markers (4 chemicals from nectar and 1 DNA marker from manuka pollen) and all must be present and at these levels:
The following chemicals all need to be present and at these levels: