When it comes to premium honey, Manuka Honey MGO 850 stands out for its naturally high level of methylglyoxal (MGO), a compound associated with the distinctive activity of Manuka honey. For Australian consumers looking for a high-strength Manuka honey, an MGO 850+ rating represents a particularly concentrated option.
But what does MGO 850+ actually mean, and what makes Australian Manuka honey different from ordinary honey? From its natural origins in Australia to the importance of independent testing, understanding the MGO rating can help consumers make a more informed choice.
What Is Manuka Honey?
Manuka honey is produced by bees that collect nectar from plants belonging to the Leptospermum genus. Australia is home to more than 80 native Leptospermum species, giving Australian Manuka honey a diverse natural foundation.
Unlike conventional honey, Manuka honey is valued for naturally occurring compounds that contribute to its distinctive characteristics. One of the most important is methylglyoxal, commonly known as MGO.
The Australian Manuka Honey Association (AMHA) identifies MGO as a key indicator of Manuka honey activity. MGO can be measured directly through laboratory testing, making it useful when assessing the strength of Manuka honey.
This is why consumers often see labels such as MGO 100+, MGO 550+, or MGO 850+ when comparing different Manuka honey products.
What Does Manuka Honey MGO 850+ Mean?
The number on an MGO label refers to the concentration of methylglyoxal in the honey, measured in milligrams per kilogram (mg/kg), which is equivalent to parts per million (ppm).
Therefore, MGO 850+ means the product has a minimum MGO level of approximately 850 mg/kg according to its stated rating.
The “+” is important. Australian Manuka honey labelling guidance explains that an MGO value followed by a “+” indicates the minimum MGO level represented by that rating.
This makes MGO 850+ a high-strength category compared with lower MGO grades. However, MGO is only one part of assessing a Manuka honey product. Authenticity, origin, independent testing, production practices and appropriate labelling also matter.
Why Is MGO Important in Manuka Honey?
MGO is one of the naturally occurring compounds that gives Manuka honey its distinctive properties. It develops from dihydroxyacetone (DHA), which occurs naturally in the nectar of some Leptospermum flowers.
As Manuka honey matures, DHA can convert into MGO. The resulting MGO concentration is therefore useful when describing the activity level of the finished honey.
The Australian Manuka Honey Association uses MGO as a central measurement in its quality framework because it can be directly measured through laboratory analysis.
For shoppers, this provides a more practical way to compare Manuka honey products. Instead of relying only on flavour, colour or marketing descriptions, consumers can look at a measurable MGO rating.
What Makes Australian Manuka Honey Special?
Australia has an exceptionally diverse range of Leptospermum plants. These native species grow across different Australian environments, from coastal areas to mountainous regions.
This diversity contributes to the range of Australian Manuka honeys available.
Australian Manuka honey can be produced as a pure monofloral honey or as a multifloral Manuka blend, depending on the floral sources visited by the bees. Natural variation in the plants, environment and nectar can influence the characteristics and MGO levels of the resulting honey.
For consumers who specifically want Australian Manuka honey, checking the country of origin and authenticity information is therefore an important part of choosing a product.
MGO 850+ and UMF: Are They the Same?
MGO and UMF are related but they are not identical grading systems.
MGO measures methylglyoxal concentration, while UMF is a separate certification and grading system that considers multiple quality factors. The UMF Honey Association's published rating information places MGO at 829 mg/kg for its UMF 20+ reference level.
Because of this, an MGO 850+ product is often described as being around the UMF 20+ range. However, consumers should treat such comparisons as approximate rather than assuming that an MGO rating automatically means the product is UMF-certified.
When buying Manuka honey, it is best to check the actual certification or testing information displayed on the product rather than relying solely on an MGO-to-UMF comparison.
How to Choose Quality MGO 850 Manuka Honey
If you are shopping for Manuka Honey MGO 850 in Australia, there are several things worth checking before purchasing.
1. Check the MGO rating
Look for a clearly stated MGO 850+ rating and understand that the number refers to the honey's measured MGO concentration.
2. Look for Australian origin
If Australian Manuka honey is your priority, check that the product is clearly identified as being produced or sourced from Australia.
3. Consider authenticity verification
The AMHA Mark of Authenticity indicates that a product has been tested according to the association's criteria for authentic Australian Manuka honey. Products carrying the mark must meet specified MGO and DHA requirements and be produced in Australia.
4. Check independent testing
Laboratory testing provides useful assurance that the stated MGO level has been measured rather than simply estimated. Independent testing is an important part of quality verification for high-grade Manuka honey.
5. Consider flavour and intended use
High-MGO Manuka honey can have a distinctive, rich flavour that is different from everyday floral honey. It can be enjoyed directly or incorporated into foods and drinks.
How Can You Enjoy MGO 850+ Manuka Honey?
One of the advantages of Manuka honey is its versatility.
A spoonful can be enjoyed on its own, or MGO 850+ Manuka honey can be drizzled over:
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Toast
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Porridge and oats
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Greek yoghurt
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Fresh fruit
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Smoothie bowls
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Desserts
It can also be stirred into a warm drink. However, if preserving the natural qualities of honey is important to you, avoid exposing it to unnecessarily high temperatures.
Because honey is naturally high in sugars, it is best enjoyed as part of a balanced diet.
Importantly, honey should not be given to children under 12 months of age because of the risk of infant botulism.
Is MGO 850+ Worth Considering?
The answer depends on what you are looking for in a Manuka honey.
If you simply want a sweetener for everyday cooking, a lower-MGO honey may be sufficient. If you specifically want a high-MGO Manuka honey with a strong rating, Manuka Honey MGO 850+ offers a clearly defined level of MGO concentration.
The key is to look beyond the number alone. Australian origin, authenticity, testing, labelling and overall product quality are all relevant when comparing premium Manuka honey.
Final Thoughts
Australian Manuka Honey MGO 850+ represents a high-MGO option for consumers who want to explore premium Australian Manuka honey. Its defining feature is its naturally high concentration of methylglyoxal, a compound that plays an important role in the characteristics associated with Manuka honey.
Australia's rich diversity of Leptospermum plants provides a distinctive source for Manuka honey, while quality standards and laboratory testing can help consumers identify authentic products.
When choosing an MGO 850+ honey, look for clear Australian origin information, a transparent MGO rating and credible quality or authenticity verification. With the right product, Manuka honey can be enjoyed as a premium natural food with a distinctive flavour and character.