What Exactly is the MGO Rating?
Methylglyoxal (MGO) is a naturally occurring compound found in Manuka honey that is largely responsible for its powerful antibacterial and non-peroxide activity. The MGO rating on a jar of Manuka honey indicates the concentration of methylglyoxal in milligrams per kilogram (mg/kg). The higher the number, the greater the concentration of MGO and the more potent the honey's antimicrobial benefits.
Unlike standard honey, which gets its antibacterial properties from hydrogen peroxide, Manuka's strength is primarily due to MGO, which is more stable and less sensitive to heat or light. This is why Manuka honey can be used for both oral consumption and topical applications, such as on minor wounds and skin issues. The MGO level in the honey gradually increases over time as a result of the conversion of another compound called dihydroxyacetone (DHA), which is found in the nectar of the Manuka flower.
The Spectrum of MGO Ratings
Not all Manuka honey is created equal, and MGO ratings fall into several categories, each with different recommended uses. Knowing these levels helps consumers choose the right product for their specific wellness goals.
- Everyday Wellness (MGO 30+ to 250+): These lower grades are milder in potency and ideal for daily consumption. They are great for general well-being, as a natural sweetener, or for soothing a mild sore throat.
- Medicinal Strength (MGO 260+ to 500+): Moving into the therapeutic range, this honey offers more pronounced antibacterial effects. It is suitable for supporting seasonal wellness and can help with minor bacterial coughs or digestive issues.
- High Potency (MGO 500+ to 1000+): With a significantly higher concentration of MGO, this honey is potent enough for targeted therapeutic use. It is often used for skin conditions, immune support, and digestive health.
- Superior and Ultimate Strength (MGO 1000+ and above): These rare, premium-grade honeys are sought after for very specific and advanced applications. They are extremely potent and often reserved for addressing more complex or chronic health issues.
Reaching the Highest MGO Rating
While a rating of MGO 1000+ is considered advanced and powerful, some producers report even higher concentrations for limited batches. For example, the Australian Manuka company Biosota has produced honeys with ultimate strength ratings of MGO 2100+ and MGO 2200+, promoting them as some of the rarest and strongest medicinal honeys in the world. Achieving such high potency depends on several factors, including the specific subspecies of the Manuka tea tree, weather conditions during the short flowering season, and expert harvesting techniques.
These ultra-high-grade products are typically expensive due to their rarity and specialized therapeutic potential. Their use is generally reserved for serious topical applications, wound care, or specific internal health concerns, often under professional guidance. The scarcity of these ultimate-strength honeys makes them a luxury item for wellness enthusiasts and medical professionals alike.
MGO vs. UMF Rating System
When shopping for Manuka honey, you may encounter different grading systems. The two most common are MGO and UMF (Unique Manuka Factor). While both are used to measure and confirm Manuka honey's potency, there are key differences.
Comparison of MGO and UMF Grading
| Feature | MGO (Methylglyoxal) | UMF (Unique Manuka Factor) |
|---|---|---|
| Primary Measurement | Measures the specific concentration of methylglyoxal (mg/kg). | A comprehensive certification that measures MGO plus other key compounds. |
| Secondary Markers | No other markers are required for the MGO rating. | Measures DHA (for shelf life), Leptosperin (for authenticity), and HMF (for freshness). |
| Simplicity | Simple and straightforward; higher number means higher potency. | More complex, as it reflects multiple factors. UMF 20+ corresponds to a specific MGO range. |
| Authenticity | Requires laboratory testing but doesn't guarantee the honey's origin or full authenticity on its own. | A registered trademark ensuring authenticity, origin, and quality, guaranteed by the UMF Honey Association. |
| Use Case | Useful for quickly gauging the potency based solely on MGO levels. | Offers a more robust quality assurance, providing a fuller picture of the honey's overall quality. |
Conclusion: Choosing the Right MGO for You
Determining the highest MGO rating is more than a simple number; it's about understanding the honey's potency and its intended use. While ultra-high grades like MGO 2200+ represent the pinnacle of medicinal strength, they are rare and significantly more expensive. For everyday immune support or general well-being, a lower-grade Manuka honey (MGO 100+ to 400+) may be perfectly sufficient and more budget-friendly. For targeted therapeutic applications, a mid-to-high-range grade (MGO 500+ to 1000+) is generally recommended. No matter the rating, choosing a reputable brand that provides third-party testing for its MGO and/or UMF certification ensures you are getting a genuine, high-quality product. To learn more about authentic honey production, a great resource is the Manuka Honey App offered by some producers.
