Manuka Honey 850 MGO: Understanding Its Quality, Benefits, and Uses

Manuka honey 850 MGO is a high-grade honey known for its elevated methylglyoxal concentration. Methylglyoxal, commonly called MGO, is a naturally occurring compound that helps distinguish Manuka honey from many other honey varieties. Understanding this rating can help buyers compare products, assess quality information, and choose a grade that suits their preferences.

Before purchasing high-MGO honey, it is useful to understand what the number means, how it compares with other grades, and how to enjoy and store it properly.

What Does 850 MGO Mean in Manuka Honey?

MGO stands for methylglyoxal, a compound naturally present in Manuka honey. The number on the label represents the approximate amount of this compound in milligrams per kilogram of honey.

For example, Manuka honey 850 MGO contains approximately 850 milligrams of methylglyoxal per kilogram. This measurement gives consumers a practical way to compare the MGO concentration of different products.

However, the rating does not describe every aspect of honey quality. Factors such as flavour, texture, origin, freshness, and product testing also matter when making a purchasing decision.

How Does Manuka Honey 850 MGO Compare With Other Grades?

Australian Manuka honey comes in several MGO grades, allowing consumers to choose between products with different methylglyoxal concentrations.

An MGO 100 variety contains a lower concentration than MGO 850, while MGO 1200 and MGO 1500 varieties contain higher concentrations. The main distinction between these grades is their measured MGO content.

Higher ratings often come with higher prices, although costs can also depend on the producer, jar size, sourcing, and quality assurance processes.

A higher number does not automatically mean a product will taste better or suit everyone’s needs. If you mainly want honey for everyday meals, a lower grade may be sufficient. If you specifically prefer a product with a higher MGO concentration, comparing high-grade options may be more relevant.

What Should You Check Before Buying Manuka Honey?

Choosing a product involves more than reading the number on the front of the jar. A few simple checks can help you make a more informed decision.

Read the Product Label

Look for a clearly stated MGO rating, ingredient information, net weight, country of origin, and storage instructions. Clear labelling helps you understand what you are buying and how to care for it.

Check Quality Information

Reliable producers provide transparent information about product testing and quality standards. Where available, check whether the stated MGO concentration is supported by appropriate testing.

Compare Price and Quantity

High-MGO honey can cost more than lower-rated varieties. Compare the price per gram rather than judging value by the jar’s total price alone. This makes it easier to compare products of similar grades and sizes.

Consider Your Intended Use

Think about how you plan to use the honey. Your everyday food preferences, budget, and interest in MGO concentration can help you decide which grade is appropriate.

Everyday Ways to Enjoy Manuka Honey 850 MGO

Manuka honey has a distinctive flavour that can add sweetness to a range of foods. You can enjoy it without preparing complicated recipes.

Some simple options include:

• Spreading a small amount on toast.
• Mixing it into porridge or plain yoghurt.
• Adding it to a homemade salad dressing.
• Stirring it into a warm drink once it has cooled slightly.
• Using it as a sweet ingredient in sauces or marinades.

Its flavour may be richer than that of some common honey varieties, so start with a small amount when adding it to food for the first time.

Although Manuka honey is often discussed in connection with potential health properties, it should not be considered a cure for medical conditions or a replacement for professional treatment. Food-grade honey is not interchangeable with medical-grade honey used in clinical wound care.

How to Store Manuka Honey Correctly

Proper storage helps maintain the quality of honey and makes it easier to enjoy over time.

Keep the jar in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and excessive heat. Close the lid firmly after use, and always use a clean, dry spoon to prevent moisture or food particles from entering the container.

Honey may crystallise or change texture naturally during storage. This does not necessarily mean it has spoiled. Follow the instructions on the packaging for the best storage conditions.

Honey must never be given to infants under 12 months of age because it can pose a risk of infant botulism.

Is Manuka Honey 850 MGO the Right Choice for You?

The right grade depends on your preferences rather than the number alone. MGO 850 may appeal to consumers who specifically want a product with a higher methylglyoxal concentration than lower-rated varieties.

However, choosing the highest available rating is not necessary for everyone. Consider the product’s quality information, price, flavour, and intended use before deciding.

It is also important to remember that MGO concentration alone does not establish the full nutritional value of honey or guarantee particular health outcomes.

Conclusion

Manuka honey 850 MGO offers a clearly defined methylglyoxal concentration that helps consumers compare it with other grades. Understanding this measurement, checking product information, comparing prices, and following proper storage practices can make choosing honey easier.

By focusing on quality, personal preferences, and realistic expectations, you can select a Manuka honey grade that fits your needs and enjoy it as part of your everyday food choices.