Buying Manuka Honey: A Definitive Guide to MGO Ratings

Choosing the right jar of Manuka honey can be a challenge. You see terms like MGO, UMF, and various numbers on the labels, while prices vary significantly. You want to be sure you are investing in an authentic product that suits your needs, without paying for something you don't require.

This guide is designed to provide clarity. We explain what to look for when buying Manuka honey, what the MGO rating means, and present a selection of products with different strengths. This will help you make an informed choice.

What to Look For When Buying Manuka Honey

Before you make a choice, there are two key factors to consider that determine the honey's quality and authenticity.

1. Understanding the MGO Rating

The most direct indicator of Manuka honey's potency is its MGO rating. MGO stands for methylglyoxal, a naturally occurring compound found in the nectar of the Manuka bush. The MGO rating (expressed in mg/kg) indicates the concentration of this compound.

• Lower MGO (e.g., 30+ to 100+): Suitable for daily use as a natural sweetener, similar to regular honey but with the unique Manuka flavour.
• Medium MGO (e.g., 250+ to 400+): A popular choice for general wellness support. Manuka Doctor MGO 340 is a good example in this category.
• Higher MGO (e.g., 500+): This honey has a higher concentration of MGO. A jar like Manuka honey MGO 540 is often chosen by users looking for a more potent product.
• Very High MGO (e.g., 700+): Products such as Manuka honey MGO 740 contain a very high concentration of methylglyoxal and have a more complex, less sweet taste.

The choice of a specific MGO honey therefore depends entirely on your personal preference and intended use.

2. Verify Origin and Authenticity

Genuine Manuka honey is monofloral, meaning the bees have primarily collected nectar from one type of plant: the Leptospermum scoparium, or the Manuka bush. This bush grows exclusively in New Zealand.

To guarantee authenticity, the New Zealand government sets strict requirements. Look for the following features on the packaging:

• "Product of New Zealand" or "Packed in New Zealand": This confirms its origin.
• Certification: Brands like Manuka Doctor often state that their honey is independently tested and meets the government's standards for monofloral Manuka honey. This ensures you get what you pay for.

Recommended Manuka Honey Products

Based on clear product specifications and MGO ratings, we have curated a selection of Manuka honey products from the Manuka Doctor brand.

Manuka Doctor MGO 540 Manuka Honey 500g

Why It Stands Out: This honey offers a high MGO rating in a larger 500g jar, providing a great balance of potency and volume for regular users.

Benefits:

• High MGO Rating: Contains 540 mg/kg of methylglyoxal.
• Guaranteed Origin: 100% authentic Manuka honey from New Zealand.
• Independently Tested: Meets the New Zealand government's strict definition for Manuka honey.
• Unique Flavour: The taste is complex and less sweet than regular honey.

Who It's For? For the discerning user seeking a potent Manuka honey for regular consumption, who prefers a product with a high, certified MGO rating.

View Manuka Doctor MGO 540

Manuka Doctor MGO 740 Manuka Honey 250g

Why It Stands Out: With an MGO rating of 740+, this is one of the most potent options available. It is aimed at those seeking the highest possible concentration of methylglyoxal.

Benefits:

• Very High MGO Rating: Contains 740 mg/kg of methylglyoxal for a powerful effect, as claimed by the manufacturer.
• Guaranteed Authentic: Harvested and packed in New Zealand.
• Pure and Monofloral: Made from nectar predominantly sourced from the Manuka bush.
• Rich Flavour: Has a distinct, earthy, and complex taste characteristic of high-MGO honey.

Who It's For? For the experienced Manuka user or anyone specifically looking for a product with a very high MGO concentration for targeted use.

View Manuka Doctor MGO 740

Manuka Doctor MGO 340 Manuka Honey 250g

Why It Stands Out: This product is an excellent entry point into the world of MGO honey. It offers a significant MGO rating that is higher than standard honey, ideal for daily use.

Benefits:

• Good MGO Rating: Contains 340 mg/kg of methylglyoxal, a great middle-ground.
• Certified: Meets the New Zealand government's standards, guaranteeing quality and purity.
• Fully Traceable: The origin of the honey is completely traceable.
• Versatile in Use: Can be consumed directly, mixed into drinks, or spread on toast.

Who It's For? Ideal for those new to Manuka honey or looking for a reliable product for daily support of overall vitality.

View Manuka Doctor MGO 340

Looking for other types of honey?

If Manuka honey isn't quite what you're looking for, or if you're curious about other natural honey varieties, there are numerous other options available. Besides Manuka, you can find acacia honey or floral honey, each with its own unique taste and texture.

Explore Our Full Range of Honey

Frequently Asked Questions About Manuka Honey

What does MGO mean in Manuka honey?

MGO stands for methylglyoxal, the key natural compound that defines the unique properties of Manuka honey. The MGO rating on the label, such as MGO 540, indicates the concentration of this compound in milligrams per kilogram. A higher MGO rating signifies a higher concentration.

How do you use Manuka honey?

Manuka honey can be used in various ways. Many people take a teaspoon neat daily. You can also add it to tea or other beverages, but avoid high temperatures (above 40°C or 104°F) to preserve its natural properties. Additionally, it is sometimes used as an ingredient in homemade face masks. Note: honey is not suitable for children under 12 months of age.

Does all Manuka honey come from New Zealand?

Authentic, monofloral Manuka honey comes exclusively from New Zealand, where the Manuka bush (Leptospermum scoparium) grows naturally. Products sold as genuine Manuka honey must meet the strict export requirements of the New Zealand government to guarantee their authenticity. Always check the label for the country of origin.