Demystifying the MGO Grading System
For consumers, navigating the world of Manuka honey can be confusing due to various grading systems like UMF and MGO. The most direct and widely used system is MGO (Methylglyoxal), a naturally occurring chemical compound responsible for the honey's unique antibacterial power. An MGO rating of 100+ means that a jar of honey contains at least 100mg of Methylglyoxal per kilogram. This number provides a reliable indicator of the honey's strength and potential health benefits. The higher the MGO number, the higher the concentration of this potent compound.
The Role of Methylglyoxal (MGO)
MGO is formed during the maturation process of Manuka honey. The nectar of the Manuka flower contains a compound called Dihydroxyacetone (DHA), which gradually converts to MGO over time. This transformation continues after the honey is harvested, meaning the honey's potency can increase over time under proper storage conditions. Unlike the antibacterial properties found in most other types of honey, which are based on hydrogen peroxide and are easily destroyed by light and heat, Manuka honey's MGO activity is stable and robust. This stability is what gives Manuka honey its distinct reputation as a potent natural remedy for various ailments.
MGO 100+: A Daily Wellness Companion
A Manuka honey with an MGO 100+ rating is considered a mid-range strength, making it an excellent choice for daily maintenance and general well-being. While not the most potent, it still offers significant antibacterial benefits that support a healthy immune system and aid in digestive health. For those new to Manuka honey, an MGO 100+ product is an ideal entry point, providing noticeable benefits without the intensity or cost of higher-grade varieties.
Some of the uses for MGO 100+ Manuka honey include:
- Immune Support: Incorporate a spoonful into your daily routine to give your immune system a natural boost.
- Sore Throat Relief: Its thick, soothing consistency can help calm a sore or irritated throat, with the added benefit of its antibacterial properties.
- Digestive Health: It can help maintain a healthy balance of gut bacteria and ease minor digestive discomfort.
- Natural Sweetener: Use it as a healthier alternative to sugar in drinks, on toast, or drizzled over yogurt.
Comparing Manuka Honey Grades: MGO vs. UMF
When choosing Manuka honey, you may encounter both MGO and UMF ratings. It's helpful to understand the difference to make an informed choice.
| Feature | MGO (Methylglyoxal) | UMF (Unique Manuka Factor) |
|---|---|---|
| Rating Basis | Measures the concentration of the single key compound, Methylglyoxal (in mg/kg). | Comprehensive certification that measures four distinct markers: MGO, DHA, Leptosperin, and HMF. |
| Focus | Specific measure of antibacterial potency. | Overall quality, authenticity, freshness, and potency. |
| Certification | Can be tested by various independent labs. | Requires a license from the UMF Honey Association and honey must be packed in New Zealand. |
| Reliability | A clear, direct metric for potency. | A more holistic and rigorous guarantee of authenticity. |
| Correlation | Higher MGO levels correlate with higher UMF grades. | Higher UMF grades indicate a higher concentration of beneficial compounds, including MGO. |
For an MGO 100+ rated honey, the equivalent UMF grade is typically around 5+.
How to Ensure Authenticity
Because Manuka honey is a highly valued product, there are unfortunately many counterfeit products on the market. To ensure you are buying genuine Manuka honey, look for key indicators on the label.
- Check for Official Certification: Look for a certified MGO rating, and ideally, a UMF™ mark for comprehensive quality assurance.
- Verify the Origin: Authentic Manuka honey comes from New Zealand or Australia. The label should clearly state its country of origin.
- Ensure Traceability: Reputable brands often provide a traceability system, such as a QR code, that allows you to trace the jar back to its source and view test results.
- Avoid Misleading Terms: Be wary of vague or uncertified terms like “Active Manuka” or “Bio-active” that lack specific, tested ratings.
- Choose Reputable Brands: Purchase from well-known brands with a transparent history of producing authentic Manuka honey.
Conclusion
In summary, MGO 100 plus in Manuka honey means a verified minimum of 100 milligrams of the antibacterial compound Methylglyoxal per kilogram of honey. This represents a moderate potency, perfect for supporting general wellness and providing daily immune and digestive support. When making a purchase, understanding this rating, as well as the optional UMF certification, is key to selecting a genuine, high-quality product that aligns with your health needs. By checking for proper certification, country of origin, and brand transparency, you can be confident that you are getting the real, beneficial Manuka honey. For further information, consider consulting a reliable source on Manuka honey authentication. For more information on the MGO grading system and its significance, see the research by Biosota Organics on their blog.
