No two batches of Manuka honey are the same. Methylglyoxal (MGO) levels in Manuka can vary from one batch to the other because of various factors, such as climate, seasonal variations, and processing methods.
If you’ve ever wondered why two jars of Manuka have different MGO ratings and what the Manuka honey grading system means, this article has the answers.
What is MGO?
Methylglyoxal or MGO is a naturally occurring compound found in Manuka honey. It is derived from the conversion of another compound, dihydroxyacetone (DHA), found in the nectar of leptospermum scoparium (Manuka) flowers, native to Australia and New Zealand. This gradual process of conversion from DHA to MGO is influenced by many other factors, such as storage conditions, temperature, and time.
MGO is the key bioactive compound in Manuka honey that gives it its unique antibacterial properties.
Why MGO levels in Manuka are different
Various factors influence MGO levels, which is why you see Manuka honey products with different MGO ratings, such as one batch is only MGO 30, but another could be a whopping MGO 1930!
These factors can include the following:
· Floral source: Flowers from different regions, seasons, and Leptospermum scoparium varieties may have different concentrations of DHA in the nectar, affecting MGO levels.
· Geographical and environmental conditions: Climate, soil and altitude can affect DHA concentrations, which can affect MGO concentration.
· Seasonal variations: Poor flowering conditions and unexpected climate changes like excessive rain and drought can affect nectar production.
· Harvesting time: Early or late season harvesting can also affect DHA and other compounds.
· Beekeeping and honey processes: Different extraction, hive management, and processing techniques by beekeepers is another factor. Bees that forage on other flowers may also dilute MGO levels in Manuka honey.
· Storage: Excessive heat or improper storage can degrade DHA and other compounds, including MGO.
The MGO grading system
Because MGO levels vary from one batch to another, it’s important to grade the honey based on MGO content.
The MGO grading system measures the concentration of MGO in Manuka honey, indicating its antibacterial potency.
MGO grades typically range from MGO 30 to MGO 2000 and are measured in milligrams per kilogram (mg/kg). This means that Manuka honey labelled MGO 100+ contains at least 100 mg of MGO per kilo of honey.
Here at Nature's Gold, each batch of our Manuka honey is tested at the Sunshine Coast University for MGO levels and certified for authenticity.
Understanding MGO grades
The higher the grade, the higher the concentration of MGO in the honey, which correlates to better antibacterial activity.
However, it’s important to note that some research indicates that Manuka honey with lower MGO levels can sometimes exhibit stronger antibacterial activity than honey with higher MGO concentrations. This is because of the dynamic nature of MGO in Manuka, which changes over time. The antibacterial activity of Manuka honey is also not solely because of MGO. Research shows that other components in honey play a significant role in this activity.
MGO in Australian Manuka honey
Australia has the largest number of native Leptospermum species and is home to 84 of the 87 known Leptospermum species worldwide, including the Leptospermum Scoparium species. This means that there is greater potential for producing honey with higher concentrations of MGO in Australia compared to New Zealand, where only one species of Manuka tree is found, which also originated from Australia.
What strength of Manuka honey should you use?
The strength of Manuka honey to use depends on your needs. If you are looking to boost your daily health and wellbeing, or support your skin health, choose a lower grade of Manuka honey.
For more specific conditions, such as wound healing, topical applications for skin conditions, digestive and gut issues, or medicinal purposes, use higher MGO-grade honey.
At Nature's Gold, we offer a range of Manuka honey products with various MGO grades suited for most of your needs. Visit our online store or contact us with any questions. We are here to help!
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