What is mgo in manuka honey

What is Methylglyoxal (MGO)?

Methylglyoxal, commonly abbreviated as MGO, is a naturally occurring organic compound found in honey. MGO is responsible for much of the antibacterial and antimicrobial properties that make manuka honey valuable for health and medicinal purposes. Unlike regular honey that contains trace amounts of MGO, manuka honey produced by bees that pollinate the manuka tree in New Zealand contains exceptionally high levels of this compound.

MGO Content and Measurement

MGO content in honey is measured in milligrams per kilogram (mg/kg). A typical jar of regular honey contains only 5-10 mg/kg of MGO, making it relatively ineffective for antimicrobial purposes. In contrast, manuka honey typically contains 100 to 700+ mg/kg of MGO, with premium grades containing even higher levels. This dramatic difference in MGO concentration is what distinguishes manuka honey and makes it sought after for therapeutic applications.

The UMF Rating System

The UMF (Unique Manuka Factor) rating system is the primary grading method for manuka honey quality. UMF ratings directly correlate with MGO content. A UMF 10 rating indicates approximately 263 mg/kg of MGO, while UMF 20 indicates around 829 mg/kg. Higher UMF numbers represent higher MGO concentrations and more potent antimicrobial properties. Manuka honey graded UMF 10+ is considered therapeutic-grade, while UMF 20+ is premium-grade and most effective for medical applications.

Antibacterial Properties and Health Benefits

The high MGO content in manuka honey creates powerful antimicrobial effects against various bacteria. MGO interferes with bacterial cell function and reproduction, making manuka honey effective against wound infections, sore throats, and digestive issues. Research has shown that manuka honey's antimicrobial activity is effective against antibiotic-resistant bacteria, making it valuable in wound care and medical applications. The higher the MGO content, the more potent these therapeutic effects.

How Manuka Honey is Produced

Manuka honey is produced exclusively in New Zealand when bees pollinate manuka trees (Leptospermum scoparium). The manuka tree flowers for only 4-6 weeks per year, making genuine manuka honey rare and expensive. The unique properties of manuka flowers and the New Zealand environment contribute to the high MGO content. Authentic manuka honey can be verified through UMF ratings, MGO measurements, and pollen analysis, helping consumers distinguish genuine manuka honey from inferior imitations.