UMF™ Certification
The gold standard for authentic Mānuka honey.
Every jar of Wilderness Valley honey is independently tested, graded, and certified by the UMF™ Honey Association before it leaves our hands.
Manuka Honey UMF Certification
The most trusted way of identifying the qualities special to Manuka honey is UMF™ certification (Unique Manuka Factor). It is an independent and the most respected Manuka honey organisation in New Zealand.
The UMF™ does not only certify the content of the MGO (Methylglyoxal - discovered by German researchers) but also tests other signature factors crucial to Manuka honey strength and quality: Leptosperin and DHA.
Each batch of our Manuka honey products undergoes stringent independent laboratory checks before being graded and certified.
Why UMF™ certification is the most trusted?
The UMF grading system appraises natural markers found in Manuka honey and assures its activity and purity.
The UMF™ Honey Association has a world-leading science programme focused on identifying the unique signature compounds of genuine Mānuka Honey to safeguard consumers and the industry. In addition, a large body of international research collectively provides consumers and fellow researchers with a wealth of information about this product.
As part of the UMF™ Honey Association testing process, every batch of honey must also go through a series of additional checks and balances to ensure the ultimate authenticity, quality and safety. In addition, all UMF™ licence holders undergo an independent audit to meet stringent production, manufacturing, sampling, and handling standards.
So when you see the UMF™ quality trademark, you can be sure you are buying the best, 100% natural Manuka honey.
About the grading system
Not all Mānuka is created equal.
The UMF™ (Unique Mānuka Factor) grading system is the most trusted way to verify the quality and authenticity of genuine Mānuka honey. UMF™ testing measures three naturally occurring compounds that only appear together in authentic New Zealand Mānuka:
Leptosperin — Found exclusively in Mānuka nectar. Its presence confirms the honey's genuine origin.
DHA (Dihydroxyacetone) — A precursor to MGO, naturally present in Mānuka nectar. Higher DHA indicates fresher, more potent honey.
MGO (Methylglyoxal) — The primary active compound. The higher the MGO, the more potent the honey.
Every UMF™ licence holder completes independent audits covering production, manufacturing, sampling and handling. There are no shortcuts.
Wilderness Valley & the UMFHA
You always know exactly what you're buying.
We are proud members of the New Zealand Government-approved Unique Mānuka Factor Honey Association. Every Wilderness Valley product is independently tested and certified before leaving our hands. The UMF grade on our label isn't a marketing claim — it's a promise, backed by science and verified by an independent body.