QUICK SUMMARY
The MGO in manuka honey can refer to two things:
Methylglyoxal – A compound found in Manuka honey that kills bacteria.
MGO Rating System – A rating number assigned by an independent association to ensure that honey is genuine.
The two are linked, as the MGO score is determined by the level of MGO present in the honey. MGO is unique to Manuka honey which is why it is so sought after.
The MGO classification is necessary because a lot of counterfeit Manuka honey is sold around the world today.
However, the MGO classification is only one of several classification systems used in New Zealand (where the majority of Manuka honey is produced) and has some limitations compared to other systems.
MGO can mean two different things regarding manuka honey.
First, it may be short for methylglyoxal, the name of a unique compound found in Manuka honey that is effective at fighting bacteria.
Secondly, it may refer to the Manuka honey grading system developed by Manuka Health in 2008, which you will find on many New Zealand manuka honey products.
In this article, we will analyze the meaning of both in detail.
METHYLGLYOXAL – THE ANTIBACTERIAL COMPOUND
When you hear about Manuka honey’s highly touted antibacterial properties, the compound responsible is methylglyoxal (MGO).
This is a natural compound in Manuka honey and is the ingredient that makes Manuka honey special and gives it many of its health benefits.
While there are other compounds that make Manuka honey unique, it is MGO that provides the germ-fighting power, which is why this compound is the best known and most measured in Manuka honey tests.
The development of MGO in manuka honey actually begins with the nectar of the manuka flower, also known as Leptospermum scoparium.
This nectar contains a special enzyme called dihydroxyacetone (DHA).
When the bees collect this nectar from the manuka plant and bring it back to the hive, this DHA eventually converts to MGO.
Although a complex chemical reaction occurs during the honey production process, you need to understand that DHA transforms into MGO over time.
Elevated DHA levels and, many times, MGO levels will be elevated.
With low DHA levels and short periods of time, MGO levels will be low.
A high level of MGO indicates high potency.
Although methylglyoxal is not the only compound that gives honey antibacterial activity, it is what makes Manuka honey unique from other honeys.
Most honeys offer an antibacterial effect, which comes from normal levels of hydrogen peroxide.
Manuka honey also contains hydrogen peroxide, but MGO calls it NPA or non-peroxide activity. Both the peroxide and non-peroxide activity work almost as a tag team as a two-pronged attack on bacteria, which is what makes Manuka honey so effective.
MgO levels can also indicate purity, as it can be very difficult to achieve high MgO levels with wildflower honeys (many are made from different nectars).
Only unifloral honey (composed mainly of manuka nectar, and therefore purer) reaches higher MGO values.
Also Read: COMVITA MANUKA HONEY REVIEW.
MGO – THE RATING SYSTEM
There are several grading systems for Manuka honey and one of them is the MGO grading system developed in 2008 by a company called Manuka Health.
Why does manuka honey need an evaluation?
For different reasons.
First: There is a lot of fake manuka honey in the world today.
New Zealand produces 1,500 to 2,000 tonnes of Manuka honey each year.
However, more than 10,000 tons of “manuka honey” are sold every year. 2,000 tonnes in the UK alone.
If you do the math, it’s definitely impossible!
It is likely that 80% of the Manuka honey sold in the world today is not actually genuine.
For this reason, New Zealand has established several classification systems and associations to give consumers confidence that they are purchasing real Manuka honey from New Zealand.
The MGO system is a test for MGO levels, resulting in an MGO rating.
As mentioned above, MGO is responsible for the germ-killing antimicrobial actions in Manuka honey.
When you purchase MGO-rated manuka honey, you can rest assured that your honey has been tested for specific levels of methylglyoxal content, which will be marked on every jar of manuka honey tested through this system.
THINGS TO NOTE ABOUT AN MGO RATING OF MANUKA HONEY:
- MGO is just one of several grading systems for manuka honey. There are also Wedderspoon’s KFactor, AMHA (Australian Manuka Honey Association) and UMF (Unique Manuka Factor) which are the most established ratings. You can read more about these here.
- MGO levels can change over time. This means that the level of MGO may be different from the level purchased when the honey was tested and labeled.
- MGO is just one indicator of real Manuka honey. Others include compounds such as leptosparin, dihydroxyacetone (DHA), and hydroxymethylfurfural (HMF). The UMF rating system will test them all.
FAQs
What does MGO stand for in Manuka honey?
MGO stands for Methylglyoxal, which is a naturally occurring compound found in Manuka honey.
What is the significance of MGO in Manuka honey?
MGO is a key marker of the antibacterial activity in Manuka honey. It is responsible for its unique health benefits.
How is MGO content measured in Manuka honey?
MGO content is measured in milligrams per kilogram (mg/kg) and is often indicated on the honey’s label as a rating, such as MGO 100 or MGO 250.
What is the relationship between MGO and the UMF (Unique Manuka Factor) rating?
MGO is one of the components that contribute to the UMF rating, which indicates the overall quality and potency of Manuka honey. Higher MGO levels typically result in a higher UMF rating.
What health benefits are associated with higher MGO levels in Manuka honey?
Manuka honey with higher MGO levels is believed to have stronger antibacterial and healing properties, making it effective for wound care, sore throats, and digestive health.
Can you consume Manuka honey with lower MGO levels?
Yes, Manuka honey with lower MGO levels is still beneficial and can be enjoyed for its flavor and potential health benefits. It may have milder antibacterial properties compared to higher MGO varieties.
Are there any safety concerns related to consuming Manuka honey with high MGO levels?
Consuming Manuka honey with high MGO levels is generally safe for most people. However, individuals with diabetes should be cautious due to its sugar content, and it should not be given to infants under one year of age due to the risk of botulism.