What Exactly is MGO in Manuka Honey?
Methylglyoxal, or MGO, is a naturally occurring compound found in authentic Manuka honey that is largely responsible for its unique antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. It is formed over time through the conversion of another compound, Dihydroxyacetone (DHA), which is present in high concentrations in the nectar of the Manuka flower. The MGO rating on a jar of Manuka honey indicates the minimum amount of methylglyoxal present in milligrams per kilogram (mg/kg). This means an MGO 400+ honey contains at least 400mg of MGO for every kilogram of honey.
While all honey has some level of antibacterial activity due to hydrogen peroxide, MGO provides a stable, non-peroxide activity that is more resilient to breakdown by the body's enzymes. This is a key reason for Manuka honey's superior medicinal reputation.
Decoding Different MGO Levels and Their Uses
Choosing the right MGO level for you is a balance between your health goals, budget, and taste preferences. Not all Manuka honey is created equal, and understanding the different grades can help you make an informed decision.
Low MGO (Up to 250+)
- Everyday Wellness: Honeys with MGO levels like 30+, 100+, or 150+ are excellent for general, daily use. They can be added to food, tea, or taken by the spoonful for overall wellbeing and immune system support.
- Sweetener: This range offers a more familiar, sweeter honey taste, making it a great natural sweetener alternative.
Mid-Range MGO (250+ to 550+)
- Increased Immune Support: For seasonal wellness or when you need an extra boost, MGO levels of 250+ to 300+ are a popular choice.
- Targeted Ailments: Honeys graded at MGO 400+ or 550+ are often used for more specific applications, such as soothing a sore throat or assisting with digestive health.
High MGO (550+ and Above)
- Therapeutic Applications: High-potency honeys, from MGO 550+ up to 800+, are reserved for targeted health concerns and are sometimes used under professional guidance for specific issues.
- Premium Wound Care: The highest grades, such as MGO 800+ or 1000+, are considered premium or medical-grade and are sought after for intensive therapeutic uses like wound care, burns, or more chronic bacterial issues. These are potent and can have a more earthy, medicinal flavor.
MGO vs. UMF: Understanding the Grading Systems
While MGO is a direct measure of methylglyoxal, the Unique Manuka Factor (UMF) is another widely recognized grading system. The key differences are important for determining authenticity and quality.
The MGO System
- Measures a single compound: It quantifies only the methylglyoxal content, offering a clear and straightforward potency measure.
- Universally used: It can be used by any honey producer to rate MGO content, regardless of their location.
The UMF System
- Broader Assessment: UMF is a more comprehensive system, assessing four key chemical markers to confirm authenticity, potency, and purity.
- Includes MGO: MGO is a central component of the UMF rating, but it also measures Leptosperin (an authenticity marker), DHA (indicating shelf life), and HMF (a freshness marker).
- Trademarked Quality: UMF is a trademarked guarantee issued by the UMF Honey Association, ensuring the honey meets strict quality and origin standards.
MGO vs. UMF Conversion
While MGO is the basis for the UMF grade, there is a rough conversion for comparison. For example, UMF 10+ is roughly equivalent to MGO 263+, and UMF 20+ corresponds to MGO 829+. Choosing a UMF-certified product provides an extra layer of assurance regarding its authenticity and overall quality.
Comparison of MGO Levels
| MGO Range | Typical Use Case | Antibacterial Potency | Taste Profile | Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 30+ to 150+ | Daily wellness, general use, sweetener | Mild | Sweeter, floral | Lower |
| 250+ to 550+ | Immune support, digestive health, seasonal use | Moderate | Rich, intense, earthy | Mid-range |
| 550+ to 800+ | Therapeutic applications, targeted support | Potent | Strong, medicinal | Higher |
| 800+ and above | High-level wound care, intensive therapeutic use | Very Potent | Very strong, earthy | Premium |
How to Select the Right MGO for You
- Define Your Goal: Are you looking for a daily health boost or something for targeted therapeutic use? This will guide you toward the right MGO range.
- Consider Your Budget: Higher MGO levels are rarer and therefore more expensive. Decide what level of investment you are comfortable with.
- Check for Authenticity: Always look for independent testing and certification, such as the MGO or UMF label, to ensure you are buying a genuine product. You can also verify batch codes.
- Know Your Preference: The taste becomes more robust and medicinal as the MGO level increases. If you prefer a sweeter flavor, start with a lower MGO rating.
- Look for Certification: Reputable brands provide clear MGO ratings and often offer traceability systems to view lab results.
The Healing Power of Manuka Honey
The efficacy of Manuka honey, particularly its antibacterial action, has been widely studied, with research confirming its ability to inhibit the growth of various pathogens. For example, studies have shown its potential against antibiotic-resistant bacteria like MRSA. The combination of its potent antibacterial properties and soothing effects makes it a valuable addition to natural healthcare routines. However, it is essential to consult a healthcare professional for serious conditions, particularly if you are on medication. For more detailed information on its antibacterial activity, you can consult research like the article found here: Antibacterial activity of Manuka honey and its components.
Conclusion
Determining how much MGO is good is not a one-size-fits-all answer but rather a personalized choice based on your health objectives. Low to mid-range MGO Manuka honey is ideal for daily immune support and general wellbeing, while higher MGO levels offer greater potency for targeted therapeutic applications, including skin and digestive issues. By understanding the different MGO ratings and how they correlate with usage, you can confidently choose an authentic Manuka honey product that best suits your needs and budget.
The Ideal MGO Level
Whether for everyday consumption or targeted therapy, the ideal MGO level depends on individual needs. For a daily wellness ritual, a lower-grade honey is effective, while higher-potency versions are best reserved for specific health concerns where strong antibacterial properties are needed. Always opt for a product with clear labeling and independent certification to ensure authenticity and quality.
Sourcing and Authenticity
With the market for Manuka honey growing, it is crucial to ensure you are purchasing a genuine product. Authentic Manuka honey originates from New Zealand and Australia, and certification bodies like the UMF Honey Association help verify its authenticity. Always check for clear MGO or UMF ratings and batch codes on the label to verify the product's origin and potency.
The MGO-DHA Connection
The natural conversion of DHA into MGO over time is a critical process in Manuka honey production. This maturation process is why the honey's MGO content can change post-harvest, a factor that is tested and certified to ensure the rating on the label is accurate.
