Understanding MGO: Exclusive Guide to the Best Honey Potency
When it comes to honey, not all varieties are created equal. One of the key factors that determine the quality and health benefits of honey is its MGO content. But what exactly is MGO, and why is it significant when selecting honey? This exclusive guide dives deep into understanding MGO and how it impacts the potency of honey, helping you make informed decisions the next time you reach for a jar.
What is MGO?
MGO stands for methylglyoxal, a naturally occurring compound found in some types of honey, most notably in Manuka honey. Methylglyoxal is a potent antibacterial agent, and its concentration directly influences the antimicrobial strength of the honey. The higher the MGO level, the more effective the honey is at inhibiting bacterial growth and promoting healing.
Unlike regular honey, which gains its antibacterial properties primarily from hydrogen peroxide, Manuka honey’s unique benefit comes from high levels of MGO. Discovered in the early 2000s by researchers in New Zealand, MGO transformed how we evaluate honey’s medicinal qualities.
How is MGO Measured?
To understand the potency of a honey, MGO is quantified in milligrams per kilogram (mg/kg). This measurement tells you the concentration of methylglyoxal in the honey. Manuka honey, for instance, is often labeled with an MGO rating such as MGO 100+, MGO 400+, or even MGO 800+, indicating the strength of its antibacterial activity.
This standardized measurement allows consumers to compare different honey products and select one that meets their specific needs. Higher MGO ratings typically mean stronger antibacterial properties, making them preferred choices for therapeutic uses.
Why MGO Matters: The Health Benefits of High-Potency Honey
The presence of MGO in honey isn’t just a fancy label—it has real health benefits. Here are some reasons why high-MGO honey is gaining popularity:
Antibacterial and Antimicrobial Properties
MGO is responsible for much of Manuka honey’s reputation as a natural antibacterial agent. It can kill a wide range of bacteria, including some antibiotic-resistant strains like MRSA (Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus). This makes MGO-rich honey valuable for wound care, oral health, and sometimes even as a supplemental treatment for infections.
Anti-inflammatory Effects
Honey with high MGO content can reduce inflammation and speed up healing. Applying this honey to sores or ulcers has shown promising results in reducing pain and swelling, thanks to its potent bioactive compounds.
Digestive Health Support
Consuming honey with adequate MGO levels may improve digestive health by combating harmful bacteria in the gut. This can help with conditions such as acid reflux or gastritis, where bacterial imbalance often plays a role.
How to Choose the Best Honey Based on MGO
Understanding MGO levels can guide you to the best honey selection, especially if you are looking for health benefits beyond just a sweetener. Here are some tips when shopping for honey:
Look for Certified Labels
Reputable Manuka honey brands provide certification for MGO content. The New Zealand government regulates these standards, so certified products come with clear MGO ratings on the packaging. Avoid buying honey without this information if you want guaranteed potency.
Consider Your Intended Use
– Daily consumption: For everyday use as a sweetener or supplement, an MGO rating of 100-250 may suffice.
– Medical purposes: For wound care or antibacterial needs, look for MGO 400+ or higher.
– Strong therapeutic effect: MGO 600+ or above is considered very high potency.
Check for Freshness and Storage Conditions
MGO levels can degrade over time if honey isn’t stored properly. Keep honey sealed tightly and stored away from heat or direct sunlight to preserve its potency.
MGO vs. UMF: What’s the Difference?
You might have seen honey labeled with “UMF” instead of MGO. UMF stands for Unique Manuka Factor, a grading system that encompasses MGO and other compounds such as leptosperin and dihydroxyacetone. While MGO measures the concentration of methylglyoxal specifically, UMF provides a broader assessment of Manuka honey’s quality.
Both are reliable, but MGO is a more straightforward number focused on the antibacterial component. Some consumers prefer using MGO ratings since they directly indicate potency in tangible terms.
Conclusion
Understanding MGO unlocks the secret behind the therapeutic efficacy of certain honeys, particularly Manuka honey. With its powerful antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, methylglyoxal plays a crucial role in making honey not only a delicious natural sweetener but also a potent health aid. Next time you shop for honey, consider the MGO rating as your key to selecting the best honey potency tailored to your needs—whether for a daily boost or more targeted medicinal use.
By making informed choices based on MGO content, you can enjoy the sweet benefits of nature’s golden elixir to its fullest potential.
