What is MGO in Manuka Honey?
MGO, or Methylglyoxal, is a naturally occurring organic compound found in Manuka honey that is responsible for its potent antibacterial effects. While trace amounts of MGO are present in most honeys, the concentration in Manuka honey is significantly higher due to the conversion of another compound, dihydroxyacetone (DHA), which is found in the nectar of the Manuka tea tree. The conversion of DHA to MGO continues over time, meaning that aged Manuka honey can become more potent.
The MGO rating on a jar indicates the minimum amount of methylglyoxal present in milligrams per kilogram (mg/kg). A rating of MGO 400+, for example, signifies that the honey contains at least 400mg of methylglyoxal per kilogram. The higher the number, the greater the concentration of this active compound and, consequently, the stronger its antibacterial power.
The Therapeutic Benefits of High MGO Honey
For those seeking targeted therapeutic applications, high MGO honey is often considered superior due to its enhanced bioactive properties. The robust antibacterial and antimicrobial effects make it a valuable tool in several health contexts:
- Wound Healing: High MGO Manuka honey has been clinically shown to effectively treat wounds, burns, and ulcers by creating a protective barrier, fighting infection, and promoting tissue regeneration.
- Digestive Health: Studies indicate that higher MGO honey may be more effective at inhibiting bacteria like H. pylori, which is associated with stomach ulcers. Its antibacterial properties help maintain a healthy gut flora balance and soothe digestive issues.
- Immune Support: During cold and flu season, higher MGO grades can provide robust immune support and help soothe bacterial coughs and sore throats. Its anti-inflammatory properties also aid in overall wellness.
- Oral Health: Research suggests Manuka honey's antimicrobial properties may benefit oral health by targeting bacteria associated with periodontal disease.
High MGO vs. Low MGO Honey: A Comparison
| Feature | Low MGO Manuka Honey (e.g., MGO 100+) | High MGO Manuka Honey (e.g., MGO 600+) |
|---|---|---|
| Potency | Mild antibacterial activity | Strong antibacterial and antimicrobial activity. |
| Best For | Daily wellness, general immune support, and culinary use. | Targeted therapeutic use, serious wound care, and persistent infections. |
| Flavor | Sweeter, more mild honey taste. | Earthy, medicinal, and sometimes slightly bitter. |
| Price | More affordable and widely available. | Significantly more expensive due to rarity and potency. |
| Texture | Varies, but often smoother and less viscous. | Thicker, more viscous, and sometimes jelly-like, especially at higher concentrations. |
Does High MGO Guarantee Better Quality?
While higher MGO content signifies stronger antibacterial potency, it is not the sole indicator of overall quality. A comprehensive quality assessment should consider factors beyond MGO, such as the honey's origin, the beekeeping practices, and additional certifications.
- UMF Rating: The Unique Manuka Factor (UMF) rating is a more holistic measure of quality and authenticity. It verifies not only MGO content but also other key markers like leptosperin (authenticity), DHA (shelf life), and HMF (freshness). A honey with a high MGO rating and a UMF certification offers a higher level of assurance.
- Traceability: The most reputable Manuka honey producers offer full traceability, allowing consumers to scan a QR code to see independent lab test results for their specific jar.
- Source and Production: High-quality Manuka honey comes from unpolluted, remote regions of New Zealand, and is processed minimally to preserve its natural compounds. Ethical and sustainable beekeeping practices also contribute to overall product quality.
Potential Risks and Side Effects of High MGO Honey
While Manuka honey is generally safe for most people, some considerations apply, particularly with high MGO levels. For individuals with diabetes, the high sugar content can cause blood sugar spikes, and some research questions its effectiveness for diabetic wound healing due to MGO's toxicity to living cells when used alone. It is also important to note that high concentrations of MGO have been linked to potential health risks, such as the formation of Advanced Glycation End Products (AGEs), which are associated with various chronic diseases. For general consumption, however, these risks are typically not a concern.
How to Choose the Right MGO Honey for You
Choosing the right MGO honey depends on your intended use. For everyday general wellness, a lower MGO rating (e.g., 100+) is a great and more affordable choice. For specific and targeted therapeutic uses, such as wound care or addressing more persistent health issues, opting for a high-grade MGO honey (e.g., 500+ or higher) is more appropriate. Always verify that the product has been tested by an independent laboratory and comes from a reputable brand. For the highest level of assurance, look for both MGO and UMF ratings.
Conclusion
Is high MGO honey better? The answer is nuanced. For targeted medicinal applications, such as treating severe wounds or chronic infections, a high MGO honey is indeed more potent and therefore 'better'. However, for daily consumption and general health maintenance, a lower MGO grade is sufficient and more cost-effective. Quality is not determined by MGO content alone, and factors like origin, processing, and additional certifications such as UMF are vital for ensuring authenticity and overall excellence. By understanding your specific needs and decoding the information on the label, you can make an informed choice and reap the appropriate benefits of this unique and powerful honey.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does MGO stand for? MGO stands for methylglyoxal, a naturally occurring compound in Manuka honey that gives it its unique antibacterial properties.
Do all honeys have MGO? All honeys contain trace amounts of MGO, but Manuka honey has significantly higher concentrations, sometimes up to 100 times more.
Is UMF or MGO a better grading system? UMF (Unique Manuka Factor) is a more comprehensive system that includes MGO levels, as well as testing for authenticity markers like leptosperin and freshness indicators, making it a more holistic measure of quality. MGO is a simpler, more direct measure of antibacterial potency.
What MGO level is best for daily use? For daily wellness and general immune support, an MGO level of 100+ to 250+ is ideal and more budget-friendly.
Why is high MGO Manuka honey so expensive? High MGO Manuka honey is more expensive due to its rarity, the labor-intensive production process, and the rigorous, independent lab testing required to verify its potency.
Can you cook with high MGO honey? Cooking with high MGO honey is not recommended, as high temperatures can degrade the beneficial MGO compounds, rendering the therapeutic benefits less effective. It is best for medicinal use or as a raw addition to food.
Is there an age limit for consuming Manuka honey? As with all honey, it is not safe for children under one year of age due to the risk of infant botulism.
Key Takeaways
Targeted Use, Higher Potency: Higher MGO honey is specifically better for targeted therapeutic applications, such as treating wounds, persistent infections, or digestive issues.
Daily Wellness, Lower Grades: For general daily consumption, immune support, and culinary use, a lower MGO grade is perfectly sufficient and more economical.
Quality is More than MGO: MGO indicates potency, but authenticity and overall quality are best confirmed by additional indicators, like the more comprehensive UMF certification and producer traceability.
Taste and Price Correlate with MGO: High MGO honey tends to have a more potent, earthy flavor and a significantly higher price tag than lower grades.
Consider Potential Risks: Individuals with specific health conditions, such as diabetes, should consult a doctor before using high MGO honey, as there are some associated risks and warnings.
