Understanding the Science of MGO
Methylglyoxal (MGO) is a naturally occurring organic compound that is a key active ingredient in Manuka honey, responsible for its unique antibacterial properties. Unlike standard honey, whose antibacterial activity is often negated by the enzyme catalase in the human body, MGO-rich Manuka honey retains its potency. The MGO rating on a jar of Manuka honey indicates the milligrams of methylglyoxal per kilogram (mg/kg) of honey. This grading provides a clear, quantitative measure of the honey's strength, making it a reliable way for consumers to assess its quality and potential benefits.
The Conversion Process from DHA
MGO is not originally present in the Manuka flower nectar. Instead, it forms from another compound called Dihydroxyacetone (DHA), which is found in high concentrations in the nectar of the Leptospermum scoparium (Manuka) tree. After honey is collected by bees and stored, this conversion of DHA into MGO occurs naturally over time and is influenced by storage temperature. A high DHA and low MGO rating, therefore, indicates a younger honey that is still maturing, while a high MGO level signifies a mature, more potent product.
Higher MGO: When Potency is a Priority
Manuka honey with a high MGO concentration (e.g., MGO 500+, 850+, and higher) is often sought after for its powerful therapeutic and medicinal effects. The robust antibacterial properties make it effective for more targeted and chronic health concerns.
Common uses for high MGO honey:
- Wound Care: Its potent antimicrobial and antiseptic qualities can help sterilize and protect wounds, burns, ulcers, and minor cuts from infection, while also promoting the healing process.
- Digestive Health: High-grade Manuka honey is often used to support digestive balance by inhibiting harmful bacteria in the gut, such as H. pylori, while providing prebiotic benefits.
- Immune Support: During cold and flu season, higher MGO grades can provide an extra boost to the immune system.
- Skin Conditions: It is used topically for more stubborn skin conditions like acne, providing antibacterial and anti-inflammatory support.
The Trade-offs of High MGO
While highly effective for specific ailments, high-MGO Manuka honey comes with certain considerations. It is typically more expensive due to its rarity and potent properties. Additionally, some people find its taste to be more intense and earthy, which can be less palatable for daily, casual consumption.
Lower MGO: For Daily Wellness and Dietary Use
Manuka honey with a lower MGO rating (e.g., MGO 30+ to 150+) still possesses beneficial properties but is milder in effect. These grades are a more cost-effective option and ideal for regular dietary incorporation and general health maintenance.
Benefits and uses of low MGO honey:
- Everyday Wellness: A daily spoonful can support overall immune function and provide a boost of energy.
- Dietary Inclusion: Its sweeter, milder flavor is excellent for culinary uses, such as a sweetener in tea, drizzled over toast or yogurt, or blended into smoothies.
- Soothing Sore Throats: Lower grades can still effectively soothe a sore throat and calm a cough, providing a gentle antibacterial effect.
- Skin Moisturizing: The natural moisturizing and anti-inflammatory properties are great for general skin care, such as face masks or soothing minor irritations like eczema.
Comparison: Higher MGO vs. Lower MGO
Choosing the right MGO level for Manuka honey depends on balancing your health goals with cost and taste preferences. This comparison table provides a clear breakdown to help you decide.
| Feature | Higher MGO (e.g., 500+) | Lower MGO (e.g., 100+) |
|---|---|---|
| Potency | High: Strongest antibacterial properties, suitable for targeted medicinal uses. | Moderate to Mild: Effective for daily immune support and general wellness. |
| Price | Significantly higher, reflecting its rarity and potency. | More affordable and widely available for everyday use. |
| Flavor | Rich, earthy, and often has a more intense, medicinal taste. | Sweeter and milder, more palatable for general consumption. |
| Best For | Wound healing, managing specific digestive issues, and robust immune support during illness. | Daily wellness maintenance, general dietary use, and soothing minor ailments like sore throats. |
| Availability | More difficult to find; often sold by specialty retailers. | Readily available at most health food stores and online. |
| Risk of Side Effects | Some individuals may experience mild digestive upset with very high concentrations; consult a professional if concerned. | Generally well-tolerated for most people; safe for daily consumption (except for infants under one). |
Conclusion
The question of whether higher or lower MGO is better has no single answer; instead, it depends on your specific needs and goals. For serious medicinal applications, a higher MGO honey provides the necessary potent antibacterial strength to target infections and aid healing. For daily wellness, dietary supplementation, and minor ailments, a lower MGO grade offers excellent health benefits at a more accessible price point. Ultimately, understanding your purpose and budget will guide you to the right Manuka honey for you.
How to Choose the Right MGO for You
- Assess your needs: For a specific health concern like a wound infection or persistent gut issue, choose a higher MGO grade (500+ or higher). For general, daily immune support, a lower grade (100+ to 250+) is more than sufficient.
- Consider your budget: The cost of Manuka honey increases with its MGO rating. For an everyday supplement, a lower grade provides good value, while a higher grade is a greater investment reserved for specific therapeutic needs.
- Taste preference matters: If you prefer a milder taste for dietary use, stick with lower MGO grades. If you don't mind a more robust, earthy flavor, higher grades will suit you.
- Look for authenticity: Regardless of MGO level, always ensure the honey is certified and sourced from a reputable brand to guarantee its authenticity and quality.
By keeping these factors in mind, you can confidently select the Manuka honey that best aligns with your health and wellness objectives.
Additional Considerations and Expert Insights
For those seeking comprehensive quality assurance beyond just the MGO rating, some brands also use the UMF™ (Unique Manuka Factor) grading system. UMF™ verifies Manuka honey by testing for a range of markers, including MGO, Leptosperin (a unique floral marker), and DHA, ensuring authenticity, purity, and shelf life. While the MGO rating is a simple and direct measure of antibacterial potency, a UMF™ certification can provide additional peace of mind regarding overall quality.
When buying, a good rule of thumb is to start with a lower MGO grade if you are new to Manuka honey and only move to higher grades if needed for specific health issues, always adhering to recommended dosages. A higher grade is not necessarily better for all applications, so an informed decision based on your unique situation is key.
Conclusion
In the debate of higher versus lower MGO, the optimal choice is not about one being universally superior but about finding the right fit for your specific health goals and preferences. For powerful, targeted medicinal treatment, a higher MGO concentration is warranted. For maintaining daily wellness and enjoying Manuka honey's benefits as part of a regular diet, a lower, more affordable grade is ideal. By understanding the distinction and aligning it with your needs, you can make an informed and effective choice.
How to Choose Manuka Honey
When navigating the market for Manuka honey, follow these steps to make a well-informed choice:
- Define Your Purpose: Decide if you need it for everyday maintenance (lower MGO) or targeted health concerns (higher MGO).
- Check the Certifications: Look for clear MGO or UMF™ ratings on the label, which guarantee independent testing and authenticity.
- Read the Origin: Authentic Manuka honey should originate from New Zealand or Australia and have a traceable origin.
- Consider the Cost: Price often correlates directly with MGO levels, so select a grade that fits your budget and intended use.
- Factor in Flavor: Be aware that higher MGO levels can result in a more intense, medicinal flavor.
- Seek Reputable Brands: Buy from well-established and trusted brands that provide transparency about their sourcing and testing methods.
By following these guidelines, you can confidently select the Manuka honey that is best for your needs.
