What is a good MGO for honey?

Manuka honey is renowned for its medicinal properties, thanks in large part to the presence of methylglyoxal (MGO). This compound is responsible for the honey's powerful antibacterial effects, and understanding what is a good MGO for honey is crucial for selecting the right product for your health goals.

Quick Summary

An MGO rating measures the concentration of methylglyoxal in Manuka honey, indicating its antibacterial strength and potency. Higher numbers reflect a more potent honey, with appropriate levels varying based on intended use, from general wellness to targeted therapeutic support.

Key Points

• MGO Rating Defined: MGO, or methylglyoxal, measures the potent antibacterial compound in Manuka honey, indicating its strength.

• Levels for Purpose: Choose low MGO (30+-100+) for daily wellness, mid MGO (250+-400+) for immune support, and high MGO (500+ and above) for therapeutic use.

• MGO vs. UMF: MGO measures a single compound, while the UMF certification is a comprehensive system that confirms authenticity, purity, and potency, providing greater assurance.

• Verify Authenticity: Look for independent certifications like UMF™ and transparent batch traceability on the label to ensure you are buying genuine Manuka honey.

• Cost Correlates with Potency: Higher MGO ratings indicate greater potency and are rarer, which is reflected in a higher price point.

Manuka honey, a prized delicacy from New Zealand, stands apart from standard honey due to its high concentration of methylglyoxal (MGO). This unique compound is the key marker of its potency, offering antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial properties. Selecting the right MGO level is essential, as the "best" rating depends entirely on your specific health objectives. A low MGO may suffice for daily maintenance, while a very high MGO is reserved for intensive therapeutic applications.

What are MGO levels?

MGO is measured in milligrams per kilogram (mg/kg), and the number displayed on the label indicates the minimum amount of MGO present in that particular jar. For example, an MGO 400+ rating signifies at least 400mg of methylglyoxal per kilogram of honey. The compound originates from dihydroxyacetone (DHA) found in the nectar of the Manuka flower and naturally converts to MGO as the honey matures. Factors like harvesting conditions and beekeeping practices influence the final concentration.

How to choose the right MGO rating

Your wellness goals are the primary factor in determining which MGO level is right for you. Here is a breakdown of typical MGO ranges and their recommended uses:

• Low Range (MGO 30+ to MGO 100+): Excellent for daily consumption as a natural sweetener in drinks, breakfast foods, or smoothies. It provides general wellness support with mild antibacterial activity.
• Mid-Range (MGO 250+ to MGO 400+): Ideal for proactive immune support and addressing minor ailments like seasonal wellness or a mild sore throat. This range offers more pronounced antibacterial effects.
• High Range (MGO 500+ to MGO 850+): Best suited for targeted therapeutic use and moderate health concerns. This includes digestive issues, wound healing, burns, skin conditions, and more persistent sore throats.
• Very High Range (MGO 1000+ and above): A premium and potent range reserved for serious therapeutic applications, such as chronic bacterial infections, ulcers, and severe wounds. These grades should be used under medical advice due to their exceptional potency.

MGO vs. UMF: Understanding the difference

While MGO is the most direct measure of a honey's potency, another common rating is UMF (Unique Manuka Factor). UMF is a more comprehensive system that measures not only MGO but also other signature compounds, like Leptosperin and DHA, to guarantee authenticity, purity, and freshness. A UMF™ certification offers an added layer of assurance for consumers.

Feature	MGO (Methylglyoxal)	UMF (Unique Manuka Factor)
Measurement Focus	Measures only the methylglyoxal content in mg/kg.	Assesses four key markers: MGO, Leptosperin, DHA, and HMF.
Potency Indicator	Direct measure of antibacterial strength. Higher numbers mean higher potency.	Broader measure of overall antibacterial activity, quality, and authenticity.
Assurance Level	An accurate but single indicator of potency.	A comprehensive, independently verified quality mark for authenticity and potency.
Relationship	A key component and driver of the UMF rating, but not the whole picture.	A holistic grading system that incorporates the MGO score.

How to verify authenticity and quality

The Manuka honey market, unfortunately, contains many mislabeled or inauthentic products. To ensure you are purchasing a genuine and high-quality product, especially for a higher MGO, follow these steps:

• Check for Certification: Look for both MGO and UMF™ certified products, which guarantee the honey has been independently tested and verified.
• Traceability: Authentic jars often feature a batch code or QR code that allows you to trace the honey back to its New Zealand origin and view lab test results.
• Reputable Brand: Purchase from established brands known for ethical sourcing, transparency, and rigorous testing procedures.
• Packaging: Look for clear labeling with the specific MGO value and an origin statement confirming it is a product of New Zealand.

For more information on the testing process, you can refer to the Manuka South Guide to Reading MGO Labels.

Conclusion

Ultimately, a "good" MGO for honey is one that aligns with your intended use. For daily enjoyment and general well-being, a lower MGO is perfectly suitable and more affordable. When targeting specific health issues, a higher, more potent MGO rating is necessary. By understanding the different MGO levels and verifying the honey's authenticity through certification marks like UMF™, you can make a confident and informed purchase that meets your health goals effectively.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the lowest effective MGO level for health benefits?

For general wellness and daily immune support, an MGO level of 100+ is often considered a good starting point. However, for more targeted therapeutic uses, a higher rating is recommended.

Is a higher MGO always better for honey?

Higher MGO levels indicate greater antibacterial potency, making it better for serious or targeted therapeutic needs like wounds or infections. For general daily use, a very high MGO is not necessary and would be a less cost-effective choice.

Can I use low MGO Manuka honey for a sore throat?

A mid-range MGO (around 250+ to 400+) is more effective for soothing a sore throat due to its more pronounced antibacterial activity. A lower MGO may offer some mild relief, but a higher potency is better.

How is MGO tested in honey?

The MGO level is determined through laboratory testing, often using High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC), which provides a precise measurement of the methylglyoxal content in milligrams per kilogram (mg/kg).

What is the difference between MGO and Active Manuka?

Active Manuka is a non-specific term and does not guarantee a certified level of potency. MGO, by contrast, is a scientifically backed numerical standard that provides a clear measure of a honey's potency.

Does heating Manuka honey destroy the MGO?

Yes, excessive heat can destroy the beneficial bioactive compounds, including MGO, in raw honey. For this reason, Manuka honey should be added to warm (not hot) tea or beverages to preserve its properties.

Why is Manuka honey with a high MGO so expensive?

High MGO ratings are rarer and require more potent, often monofloral, sources of Manuka nectar, which naturally increases its value. The intensive testing and stringent quality control also contribute to the higher price.