Note: Due to legal regulations, we are not permitted to make any specific statements regarding the effects of MGO or its specific uses. However, you will find reliable information here about methylglyoxal (MGO), its discovery, and the significance of the various MGO levels in Manuka honey.

 

What exactly does MGO mean in the context of Manuka honey?

MGO stands for methylglyoxal. It is a naturally occurring compound found in Manuka honey in significantly higher concentrations than in other types of honey. While regular blossom honey contains hardly any traces of this substance, genuine Manuka honey often contains hundreds of times more.

The MGO rating indicates how many milligrams of methylglyoxal are contained in each kilogram of honey. The higher the MGO rating, the more intense and rare the honey is. For example, a Manuka honey with an MGO rating of 400 contains at least 400 mg of methylglyoxal per kilogram.

 

The Discovery of MGO – A Scientific Milestone

The extraordinary properties of Manuka honey were first observed in the 1980s at the University of Waikato in New Zealand. Researchers led by Professor Peter Molan discovered that this honey possesses properties not found in conventional honey.

In 2006, scientists led by Professor Thomas Henle at the University of Dresden conducted detailed analyses in which they demonstrated that methylglyoxal is the main component responsible for the unique properties of Manuka honey. They also confirmed that Manuka honey contains particularly high amounts of MGO—a characteristic that makes it highly sought after not only in the food industry but also in the cosmetics and medical industries.

 

The Importance of MGO in Manuka Honey

MGO is a key component of Manuka honey and has been the focus of numerous scientific studies. Various studies, including those conducted between 2011 and 2020, have examined the extent to which MGO might be associated with antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties. We would like to point out that, in accordance with applicable EU regulations, no health claims regarding the effects on humans may be derived from these studies.

 

Manuka Honey – Which MGO Level for Which Use?

The intensity of the honey varies depending on the MGO concentration. Many consumers therefore wonder which MGO value is best suited to their specific needs. Below, you’ll find an overview of the most common MGO variants and learn which Manuka honey applicationsthey are suitable for.

MGO 100+ to 250+: Mild in flavor and ideal for everyday enjoyment. Perfect for sweetening beverages or as an ingredient in recipes.

MGO 400+ to 550+: Many users prefer these strengths because they are perceived as having a slightly more intense flavor. Manuka honeys with medium to high MGO values are valued by many for their special properties—for example, during the cooler months or as a high-quality addition to daily life.

MGO 600+ and higher: These varieties are rarer and particularly intense, making them a highlight for connoisseurs. They are primarily chosen when a particularly strong honey is desired—for specific uses or if you prefer the highest possible MGO content.

 

Manuka Honey - How Much MGO for Adults?

If you're wondering how much MGO is appropriate for adults, you can use the following guidelines: .

For everyday consumption, honey with an MGO rating of 100 to 250 is often sufficient. If you're specifically looking for a more intense Manuka honey, then 400 or 550 MGO might be right for you. For a particularly intense experience, you can also opt for MGO ratings of 800+.

When consumed in the amounts typically associated with honey, Manuka honey—whether it has lower or higher MGO levels—can be a beneficial addition to your diet. 

As with honey in general, the same applies to Manuka honey: one to three teaspoons a day is a healthy addition to your diet.

 

Manuka Honey - Highest MGO Rating

The highest MGO value currently measured in high-quality Manuka honey is approximately MGO 1250. Such varieties are very rare and correspondingly expensive. They are harvested only in small batches and are usually available in pharmacies or specialized online stores.

But do you really need the highest MGO rating? Not necessarily. For many uses, a medium rating is perfectly sufficient—what matters is what you expect from your honey and how often you use it.

 

How is MGO produced?

MGO is produced in Manuka honey through a natural ripening process that begins as early as when the bees store the nectar. The nectar, which is extracted from the flowers of the Manuka plant, contains dihydroxyacetone (DHA). When the bees store the nectar in their honeycombs, the natural conversion of DHA to methylglyoxal (MGO) occurs. 

This process continues during the storage and maturation of the honey, causing the MGO content in the honey to increase over time and become a unique quality characteristic of Manuka honey. This natural process is influenced by time, temperature, and the quality of the harvest.

Unlike conventional honeys, which derive their bioactive properties primarily from hydrogen peroxide, in Manuka honey, MGO is the key component that gives this honey its unique properties.

 

What sets Manuka honey apart from other honeys?

Manuka honey has a variety of unique characteristics that set it apart from conventional honeys. These special properties make it a true natural product that plays an important role both in the kitchen and in daily personal care.

High MGO content: The most distinctive feature of Manuka honey compared to conventional honeys is undoubtedly its high MGO (methylglyoxal) content. While many other types of honey contain only small amounts of MGO, Manuka honey reaches impressive levels of several hundred milligrams per kilogram. This high concentration makes Manuka honey particularly valuable and distinguishes it significantly from other honeys that contain only small amounts of MGO. Due to its high MGO content, Manuka honey is in particularly high demand.

Composition: In addition to MGO, Manuka honey is also rich in other important compounds. These include DHA (dihydroxyacetone), leptosperin, and specific enzymes. Together, these components contribute to its unique flavor and distinctive composition.

Origin: Another key factor that distinguishes Manuka honey from other types of honey is its origin. Genuine Manuka honey comes exclusively from New Zealand, where the Manuka plant (Leptospermum scoparium) grows wild. This plant is the source of the honey, which is produced only in the remote, untouched regions of the country. This geographical characteristic ensures that the honey is of particularly high quality.

 

What quality characteristics can you look for to identify high-quality Manuka honey?

If you want to buy high-quality Manuka honey, there are a few important things you should keep in mind. They will help you ensure that you get an authentic product that excels in both quality and sustainability.

Certified MGO rating: A clearly stated MGO rating on the label is one of the first things you should look for when buying Manuka honey. It’s important to pay attention to this information because the MGO rating directly reflects the potency and quality of the honey.

Independent laboratory testing: Reputable manufacturers test their Manuka honey in independent laboratories to verify the MGO rating and purity. At Manuka Valley, we also have our honeys tested for pesticides, so you can be sure you’re getting pure, 100% Manuka honey. You can also view our test certificates on our website. This transparency helps you distinguish genuine Manuka honey from inferior products.

Transparent Origin: The origin of the honey should be clearly traceable. That’s why we offer QR code traceability for every jar of Manuka honey. This allows you to see with complete transparency when, where, and how your Manuka honey was harvested and produced. 

Packaging and Sustainability: We offer our Manuka honey in reusable glass jars. Our lids are made from rapidly renewable bamboo. You can also take advantage of our refill service with a 10% discount to have us refill your Manuka honey jars. That way, everyone wins. You, us, and the environment.

Discover authentic Manuka honey from Manuka Valley now— directly from New Zealand, 100% natural, lab-tested, and traceable.