When looking for manuka honey, you will quickly see numbers such as MGO 550, MGO 850, or MGO 1000 on the label. But what do they actually mean? In this article, we explain what MGO is and how to choose the right number for your needs.
What does MGO mean?
MGO stands for methylglyoxal, a natural substance found in manuka honey. The number after MGO indicates the minimum number of milligrams of methylglyoxal per kilogram of honey. MGO 550 therefore contains at least 550 mg per kilogram, MGO 1000 at least 1000 mg. The higher the number, the more concentrated and rare the honey.
Where does manuka honey come from?
Genuine manuka honey comes from New Zealand, where bees forage on the blossoms of the manuka bush. The flowering season is short and the harvest limited. This makes manuka one of the most special types of honey in the world.
Which MGO number should you choose?
A higher MGO number means a fuller, more intense flavour and a higher concentration of methylglyoxal. If you are just starting with manuka, MGO 550 is a great introduction. If you are looking for the mid-range, choose MGO 850. For those seeking the maximum, there is MGO 1000, our most concentrated manuka.
What to look for when buying?
Always check that the MGO content is stated on the label and that the honey actually comes from New Zealand. At By Amina's Honey, we carefully select our manuka for its origin and quality, just like all our pure honey.