UMF guide: how to choose authentic Manuka honey

Authenticity, quality and differences in the world of Manuka honey

Manuka honey is a much sought-after elixir for wellness enthusiasts, sportsmen and anyone who aspires to supplement their diet naturally. Unfortunately, however, there is no shortage of countless imitations of this highly prized product, and for those new to this world it may not be easy to recognize authentic Manuka honey.

How can we make sure that we are buying only real Manuka honey, and enjoy the benefits that this product gives us? The solution is UMF certification, the only guarantee of authenticity, quality, potency and provenance.

In this article we will see together not only how to distinguish genuine Manuka honey from fakes, but also how to choose the one best suited for your needs.

What is UMF certification?

UMF is the only quality and grading system that independently certifies the presence and quality of all the factors that make New Zealand Manuka honey so special. The only way to ensure you are buying real Manuka honey and not imitations is to choose only products with the UMF™ quality mark on the front of the package or jar.

The UMF verifies the presence of the product's beneficial efficacy, and describes its potency. The only honey with UMF properties is Leptospermum Scoparium honey, or Manuka honey; this is because the bees that pollinate Manuka flowers add a special enzyme with antibacterial properties to the hydrogen peroxide present in all types of honey.

Who issues the certifications: the UMFHA

The UMF certification is issued by the UMFHA (Unique Mānuka Factor Honey Association), an organization that independently tests and certifies every batch from more than 150 companies. UMFHA tests the product for the four key factors that ensure Manuka honey's potency, authenticity, shelf life and freshness.

UMFHA founded the science of Manuka honey more than 25 years ago. Today it represents 150 beekeepers, processors and traders who are committed to providing only the best Manuka honey. UMFHA members account for 70% of New Zealand's entire final product.

Why is UMF certification a guarantee of quality? Because it is the only independent, comprehensive, scientifically tested evaluation system that exceeds government standards.

What does the UMF measure? Here are the four factors

The four factors tested in Manuka honey are MGO, Leptosperine, DHA and HMF.

The organic compound Methylglyoxal (MGO) and the bioactive compound Leptosperine give Manuka honey its unique antibacterial potency.

Dihydroxyacetone (DHA) is used to measure shelf life, while hydroxymethylfurfuraldehyde (HMF) is an indicator of changes due to heating and storage.

The number following the compounds refers to the amount in mg/kg. The higher the number, the greater the amount of these valuable and beneficial substances.

How to read the UMF™ classification

Upon completion of all testing and verification, each batch of certified honey is given a Unique Manuka Factor level. This level refers to the amount of the four active compounds in the honey, and thus indicates the potency and beneficial efficacy.

Please note: It is important to understand that all UMF-certified honey has beneficial, antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties; what changes is the potency, and thus the uses to which this particular honey is recommended to be put.

From 5+ to 10+: a delicious sweetener

Manuka honey with this classification is a natural product with an intense and unmistakable taste, suitable for supporting a healthy lifestyle.

15+ to 20+: a powerful supplement

Manuka honey so classified possesses powerful antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, perfect for supporting your health and well-being.

25+: a nutrition support

This is the most powerful Manuka honey, which can be used for specific treatments.

Manuka honey, how to recognize counterfeits?

Knowing how to recognize the knockoffs that are unfortunately on the market is crucial so that you don't get duped and throw your money away on an inauthentic product that lacks the properties of real Manuka honey.


Here are 3 points to watch out for:

- UMF certification. As we explained, only authentic Manuka honey can get this certification. So look for the stamp on the package or label.

- Country of origin. Genuine Manuka honey comes exclusively from New Zealand. The label should clearly state that the honey was produced and packaged in New Zealand.

- Price. Because of limited production, very high quality, and difficult-to-obtain certifications, original Manuka honey is quite high priced. Excessively low prices could indicate counterfeiting.

Choose Otamatapaio Manuka honey as a guarantee of quality

Otamatapaio Manuka Honey is UMF15+ certified and is therefore a true panacea for your health and well-being, to be included as a sweet and pleasant habit to feel good every day. 

Sourced directly from New Zealand, our Manuka honey is certified to guarantee its authenticity, quality and effectiveness, and this is evidenced by our unique license number: #3078. This number is issued directly by the UMFHA, the official organization that regulates and verifies the production of Manuka honey in New Zealand.

You can look up our license number on their official website to confirm that our product meets the highest quality standards. This certification is a guarantee of the methylglyoxal (MGO) content and the other natural compounds that make Manuka honey so special and beneficial to health.

Relying on a UMF-licensed producer means choosing authentic honey, subjected to rigorous scientific testing, and with absolute transparency about its origin and processing.

Buy it in our shop and get it conveniently delivered to your home, wherever you are.