What is MGO In Manuka Honey? MGO Explained

Manuka honey’s unique qualities come from a natural compound called Methylglyoxal (MGO). This article explores what MGO is, why it’s important in Manuka honey, and how to verify honey’s MGO levels.

Key Takeaways

• MGO is a natural compound in Manuka nectar that contributes to its special properties.
• Higher MGO levels indicate a higher concentration of key bioactive compounds.
• MGO levels help verify the authenticity and quality of Manuka honey.

Comparison Table

Low MGO Manuka vs. High MGO Manuka

Standard Honey vs. Manuka Honey

Authentic Manuka Honey vs. Fake Manuka Honey

What Is MGO in Manuka Honey?

MGO, or Methylglyoxal, is a natural compound found in Manuka honey. It originates from the nectar of the Manuka tea tree flowers in New Zealand. The higher the MGO content, the higher the concentration of key bioactive compounds, making MGO a marker of quality and authenticity.

How can I verify the MGO levels in my Manuka honey?

Authentic Manuka honey will clearly display the MGO grade on the label. Brands like Manukora also provide traceability codes to view independent lab tests confirming MGO levels. Simply check the MGO grade and scan the traceability QR code.

Executive Summary

• MGO is a naturally occurring compound derived from the nectar of the Manuka tea tree.
• MGO levels can be used to verify your Manuka honey's authenticity.
• MGO is an important nutrient in Manuka honey due to its unique properties.

Understanding the Full Story of MGO in Manuka Honey

Manuka honey contains over 2,000 unique natural compounds—far more than other honey types—with 30 found only in Manuka. As the MGO grade increases, other key bioactive compounds (e.g., leptosperin) also increase, potentially offering more benefits.

At Manukora, we grade our products based on their MGO levels, ensuring that all our Manuka honey comes from genuine and authentic sources. This helps our customers determine the right type of Manuka honey for their lifestyle.

Our range includes options like the highly potent MGO 1000+ and the convenient MGO 850+ 10-pack stick packets, catering to different needs and preferences.

MGO is clearly marked on the front of each Manukora product for simplicity—the higher the MGO number, the higher the concentration of key bioactive compounds in Manuka.

Decoding MGO Labels for Buyers

Manuka honey jars often state their MGO levels, such as MGO 600+, MGO 850+, or MGO 1000+, right on the label. This serves as a quick reference indicating the honey’s potency and quality.

Here's a quick breakdown of common MGO levels and labels:

• MGO 600+: Indicates a high concentration of key bioactive compounds.
• MGO 850+: A premium range featuring higher levels of MGO.
• MGO 1000+: Represents the highest standard, ideal for those seeking maximum wellness support.

If you’re unsure which MGO level is right for you, take our MGO quiz to discover the best match for your needs.

Why Do MGO Levels Matter?

The concentration of MGO in Manuka honey is a critical indicator of its quality. MGO levels are one of the ways Manukora certifies that its honey is authentic Manuka honey.

Research links MGO with supporting:

• Oral Health
• Good Digestive Function
• Immune Function
• Overall Wellness

Varied MGO levels offer consumers a range of options to cater to their specific needs and preferences.

3 Benefits of Higher MGO Levels

Manuka honey with high MGO levels, like 850+ and 1000+, offers enhanced wellness support:

1. Supports General Wellness

   Higher MGO content corresponds to a higher concentration of beneficial nutrients like unique antioxidants. These nutrients support overall wellness and a healthy lifestyle.

2. Supports Immunity

   MGO contributes to maintaining a normal, high-functioning immune system. Higher concentrations of MGO, along with other natural compounds in Manuka honey, support the body's natural immune response.

3. Aids Digestive Health

   Potent Manuka honey contains oligosaccharides that act as prebiotics in the gut. MGO, combined with these prebiotics, supports a healthy microbiome and optimal digestive health.

Manukora's Commitment to High MGO Levels

At Manukora, we understand the importance of high MGO levels in Manuka honey. We are dedicated to ethical beekeeping practices and a gentle production philosophy.

• Sustainable Beekeeping: Our hives are placed in remote Manuka tea tree forests, allowing bees to collect potent nectar with high MGO potential.
• Natural Maturation: We allow the honey to mature naturally, ensuring the preservation of its key bioactive compounds.
• Bee Welfare: We prioritize the health of our bees by harvesting only surplus honey and using organic methods to maintain healthy colonies.
• Transparency: All our products are third-party tested, and detailed information is available via a QR code on each jar.

Each jar is authentic, traceable, and trusted.

Practical Tips on Using Manuka Honey with High MGO

Incorporating Manuka honey into your daily routine is simple and enjoyable. Here are some ideas:

• Directly from the Spoon: Enjoy a heaped teaspoon of Manuka honey each morning.
• In Beverages: Stir into your favorite tea or coffee once it's cooled slightly.
• Smoothies: Add a spoonful to your morning smoothie for a natural boost.
• Drizzle Over Foods: Enhance oatmeal, yogurt, or toast with a drizzle of Manuka honey.

Note: We recommend not adding Manuka honey to boiling temperatures. Let hot foods or drinks cool for 30-60 seconds before adding to preserve the bioactive compounds.

Ensuring Authenticity: How to Verify Your Manuka Honey Is Genuine

Making Informed Choices as a Buyer

• Assess Your Needs: Determine your purpose for purchasing Manuka honey.
• Read Labels Carefully: Look for clear MGO grades and traceability information.
• Understand Price Points: Higher MGO levels may come at a higher cost due to their rarity.
• Choose Reputable Brands: Research brands to ensure quality and authenticity.

At Manukora, we provide a traceability system that allows you to track your jar of honey back to its source and view lab test results. Simply scan the QR code on your jar to access this information.

FAQs

What does MGO mean in Manuka honey?

MGO stands for 'Methylglyoxal,' a naturally occurring compound found in Manuka honey. The concentration of MGO indicates the level of key bioactive compounds in the honey.

Why is MGO important in Manuka honey?

MGO is important because it's a key nutrient that contributes to Manuka honey's unique properties. A higher concentration of MGO corresponds to higher levels of other beneficial compounds.

How can I verify the MGO levels in my Manuka honey?

Check the MGO grade displayed on the product label. Brands like Manukora offer a traceability system where you can scan a QR code to view lab test results and confirm the MGO levels.

What is the relationship between MGO and UMF ratings in Manuka honey?

Both MGO and UMF ratings measure the concentration of key compounds in Manuka honey. MGO indicates the level of Methylglyoxal, while UMF (Unique Manuka Factor) is a comprehensive rating that includes MGO and other markers like leptosperin and DHA.

At Manukora, we focus on the MGO rating for transparency and specificity. We test for all key compounds, including MGO, DHA, HMF, and leptosperin, and make these results available through our QR trace system on every product.

MGO is one of the key bioactive compounds in Mānuka honey. The higher the MGO, the higher the other key bioactives such as leptosperin (a key antioxidant) which we also test for.

While we ensure a comprehensive assessment of all these additional markers through third-party laboratories, our primary focus is on the MGO rating. This approach provides a clear and direct understanding of the honey's concentration of key bioactive compounds.

Sources:

• Isolation by HPLC and characterisation of the bioactive fraction of New Zealand manuka (Leptospermum scoparium) honey
• Analytica labs 
• Methylglyoxal—A Potential Risk Factor of Manuka Honey in Healing of Diabetic Ulcers - PM