What Is Manuka Honey MGO 850+? A Complete Guide
Manuka Honey MGO 850+ is a premium variety of Manuka honey containing a high concentration of methylglyoxal (MGO), a naturally occurring compound associated with its distinctive antibacterial activity. Produced from the nectar of suitable Leptospermum plants, Australian Manuka honey is valued for its rich flavour, unique chemical composition and measurable MGO concentration.
But what does the MGO 850+ rating actually mean? How is it different from ordinary honey, and why is it more expensive than lower-MGO varieties?
This guide explains the origin, MGO rating, characteristics, everyday uses and important considerations when choosing authentic Australian Manuka Honey MGO 850+.
What Does MGO 850+ Mean in Manuka Honey?
MGO stands for methylglyoxal, a naturally occurring compound found in varying concentrations in Manuka honey.
The MGO 850+ rating means that the honey contains at least 850 milligrams of methylglyoxal per kilogram (mg/kg).
Methylglyoxal develops from dihydroxyacetone (DHA), a compound naturally present in the nectar of certain Leptospermum plants. As the honey matures, DHA can gradually convert into MGO.
The Australian Manuka Honey Association identifies MGO as an important compound associated with the non-peroxide antibacterial activity of Manuka honey.
This measurable concentration helps consumers compare different grades and understand what makes high-MGO Manuka honey distinctive.
What Makes Australian Manuka Honey MGO 850+ Special?
1. High MGO Concentration
One of the defining characteristics of Manuka Honey MGO 850+ is its high methylglyoxal concentration.
Research published in PLOS ONE examined Australian Leptospermum honey samples and found a strong relationship between MGO concentration and non-peroxide antibacterial activity.
However, laboratory antibacterial activity does not automatically mean that consuming higher-MGO honey produces greater health benefits.
2. Authentic Australian Origin
Australia is home to more than 80 native Leptospermum species, which grow across a variety of environments.
Certain species provide nectar that can produce honey with substantial MGO concentrations. The species, location and seasonal conditions can influence the characteristics of each harvest.
For Australian consumers, checking the honey’s origin and laboratory testing information is an important part of choosing an authentic product.
3. Distinctive Flavour and Texture
Australian Manuka honey is appreciated for its rich flavour and naturally thick texture.
Depending on the floral source and harvest, it may have earthy, herbal or caramel-like notes that distinguish it from lighter table honeys.
Its flavour makes it suitable for enjoying straight from the spoon or adding to breakfast foods and drinks.
However, colour and texture alone cannot establish an MGO rating. Laboratory testing is needed to measure methylglyoxal concentration accurately.
How Does MGO 850+ Compare With Other Manuka Honey Grades?
Manuka honey is available in several MGO grades, with each number representing a minimum methylglyoxal concentration.
|
Manuka honey grade |
Minimum MGO concentration |
|---|---|
|
MGO 100+ |
100 mg/kg |
|
MGO 263+ |
263 mg/kg |
|
MGO 550+ |
550 mg/kg |
|
MGO 850+ |
850 mg/kg |
|
MGO 1200+ |
1,200 mg/kg |
|
MGO 1500+ |
1,500 mg/kg |
Manuka Honey MGO 850+ contains more methylglyoxal than MGO 100+, 263+ and 550+, but less than MGO 1200+ and 1500+.
A higher MGO concentration does not necessarily mean that everyone needs the highest available grade. The appropriate choice depends on personal preferences, intended culinary use and budget.
Why Is Manuka Honey MGO 850+ More Expensive?
High-MGO Manuka honey generally commands a premium because its production depends on suitable nectar sources, seasonal flowering and favourable environmental conditions.
Not every harvest produces honey that naturally reaches MGO 850+.
Beekeepers must carefully consider hive placement, colony health and harvesting conditions. Laboratory testing is also required to confirm the MGO concentration of the finished honey.
These production requirements, combined with the limited availability of high-MGO grades, help explain the price difference between Manuka honey.