Deciphering the MGO Rating on Manuka Honey
When you see 'MGO 550' on a jar of Manuka honey, it's not just a random number—it's a critical certification of the honey's quality and potency. MGO stands for Methylglyoxal, a naturally occurring chemical marker responsible for Manuka honey's unique and powerful antibacterial properties. The number indicates the minimum concentration of MGO found in that particular batch of honey, measured in milligrams per kilogram (mg/kg). Therefore, an MGO 550+ rating guarantees that the honey contains at least 550mg of Methylglyoxal for every kilogram of honey, placing it firmly in the high-potency category.
The Science Behind MGO
Unlike regular honey, which relies on hydrogen peroxide for its antibacterial effect, Manuka honey's unique activity is driven by MGO. This compound is formed from the conversion of Dihydroxyacetone (DHA), a substance found in high concentrations in the nectar of the New Zealand Manuka bush (Leptospermum scoparium). The conversion process continues after the honey is harvested and during storage, with optimal conditions and time leading to higher MGO levels. High-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) is the standard method for accurately measuring MGO content, ensuring consumers can trust the rating on the label. A higher MGO number is directly correlated with a higher concentration of beneficial bioactive compounds, including Leptosperin, which is unique to Manuka nectar.
What High-Potency MGO 550+ Honey is Used For
Manuka honey with an MGO 550+ rating is considered a premium-grade product suitable for specific, targeted applications, rather than general, everyday use. Its powerful antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties make it a valuable natural remedy for various health and wellness needs. Some of the most common applications include:
- Immune System Support: Many people incorporate MGO 550+ honey into their routine during cold and flu season for an extra immune boost.
- Digestive Health: It can help support a healthy digestive system by assisting with conditions like ulcers, gastritis, and Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS).
- Topical Application: The strong antibacterial and anti-inflammatory activity is effective for minor cuts, scrapes, burns, acne, and other skin conditions.
- Sore Throats and Colds: Its soothing properties and high MGO content provide relief from common cold symptoms, especially sore and itchy throats.
- Oral Health: High-grade Manuka honey has been shown to inhibit the growth of harmful oral bacteria, making it beneficial for gum health.
MGO 550+ vs. Other MGO Grades
Understanding the scale of Manuka honey's potency is crucial for selecting the right product for your needs. Lower MGO ratings are typically suited for everyday wellness and culinary uses, while higher grades offer more targeted therapeutic effects.
| MGO Grade | Typical Content | Suggested Usage | Potency |
|---|---|---|---|
| MGO 50+ to 100+ | 50-100mg/kg | Everyday use, sweetening, general wellness | Mild |
| MGO 200+ to 400+ | 200-400mg/kg | Moderate support, seasonal wellness, digestive health | Moderate to High |
| MGO 550+ | 550mg/kg+ | Targeted therapeutic applications, premium support | High |
| MGO 800+ and higher | 800mg/kg+ | Ultra-premium, maximum potency for targeted issues | Very High |
As the MGO rating increases, so does the honey's price, taste profile, and therapeutic potential. Lower grades have a sweeter, more familiar honey taste, whereas higher grades like MGO 550+ often have a more intense, earthy, and medicinal flavor.
Quality and Authenticity
With a premium product like MGO 550+ Manuka honey, verifying authenticity is vital. High-quality brands provide transparency through third-party lab testing and often include a traceability QR code on the jar. This allows consumers to access specific test results for their product, confirming the MGO level and other markers like DHA and Leptosperin, which prove its genuine Manuka origin. The Unique Manuka Factor (UMF) is another respected grading system that uses MGO, DHA, Leptosperin, and HMF to verify authenticity and potency. While MGO is a more direct and simple measure of Methylglyoxal content, both systems can be used to gauge a product's quality.
Conclusion
In summary, an MGO 550+ rating on Manuka honey signifies a robust, high-potency product containing at least 550 milligrams of Methylglyoxal per kilogram. This grading system provides consumers with a clear and reliable indicator of the honey's strength and suitability for specific therapeutic applications, from digestive support to topical skin care. When choosing Manuka honey, aligning the MGO grade with your intended use—and verifying its authenticity—is key to harnessing its unique and powerful natural benefits.
Further Reading
For more information on the benefits and scientific studies related to MGO in Manuka honey, you can refer to research published by the National Institutes of Health.
