Mānuka honey, derived from the nectar of the Mānuka tree native to New Zealand, has gained global recognition for its distinctive flavour and unique health benefits. The exceptional properties of Mānuka honey are primarily attributed to its high levels of methylglyoxal (MGO), a compound responsible for its potent antibacterial effects.
Choosing the best Mānuka honey for your needs involves understanding the different MGO ratings and their specific applications. This guide looks at the significance of these ratings, helping you make an informed decision on which Mānuka honey best suits your requirements.
Understanding MGO Ratings
The MGO rating on a jar of Mānuka honey indicates the concentration of methylglyoxal present. Higher MGO values have stronger antibacterial properties. Here’s a breakdown of the different MGO ratings and their typical uses:
MGO 40+: Great for taste and cooking
MGO 100+: Everyday strength
MGO 300+: Soothing, great for sore throats and colds
MGO 525+: High strength
MGO 850+: Rare and the highest strength
MGO 40+: Best Mānuka Honey for Taste and Cooking
Characteristics:
Mild MGO content.
Subtle antibacterial properties.
Rich, sweet flavour profile.
Uses:
Mānuka honey with an MGO rating of 40+ is primarily valued for its taste rather than its medicinal properties. This makes it an excellent choice for culinary uses. It can be used as a natural sweetener in teas, drizzled over pancakes or yoghurt, or incorporated into recipes for baked goods and sauces.
Benefits:
While MGO 40+ Mānuka honey does possess some antibacterial qualities, its lower MGO content means it is best enjoyed for its rich, distinctive flavour rather than its health benefits. It's perfect for those who appreciate the unique taste of Mānuka honey.
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MGO 100+: Everyday Strength Mānuka Honey
Characteristics:
Moderate MGO content.
Balanced antibacterial and health-promoting properties.
Uses:
MGO 100+ Mānuka honey is versatile and suitable for everyday use. It can be consumed directly by the spoonful, added to drinks, or used in cooking and baking.
Benefits:
This level of MGO offers a balanced approach, providing more pronounced antibacterial effects than MGO 40+, making it suitable for general wellness. It is ideal for those looking to incorporate Mānuka honey into their daily routine for its health benefits without requiring the higher, more potent concentrations of MGO.
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MGO 300+: Best Mānuka Honey for Sore Throats and Colds
Characteristics:
High MGO content.
Strong antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties.
Uses:
MGO 300+ Mānuka honey is particularly beneficial during cold and flu season. It can be taken by the spoonful, mixed into warm beverages, or added to homemade remedies for sore throats and coughs.
Benefits:
The higher concentration of MGO in this honey makes it effective for soothing sore throats and alleviating cold symptoms. Its strong antibacterial properties can help reduce the severity and duration of infections, providing comfort and relief when you’re feeling under the weather.
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MGO 525+: High Strength Mānuka Honey
Characteristics:
Very high MGO content.
Potent antibacterial and therapeutic properties.
Uses:
MGO 525+ Mānuka honey is often used for its medicinal properties rather than as a food ingredient. It can be consumed directly, applied to minor wounds and skin irritations, or used as part of a health plan for its therapeutic benefits.
Benefits:
This high-strength Mānuka honey is ideal for those needing strong antibacterial and anti-inflammatory effects. It’s suitable for managing more serious health conditions, supporting the immune system, and promoting healing of the skin and internal tissues. Its potent properties make it a valuable addition to a natural medicine collection.
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MGO 850+: Rare and the Highest Strength Mānuka Honey
Characteristics:
Extremely high MGO content.
Exceptional antibacterial, antiviral, and anti-inflammatory properties.
Uses:
MGO 850+ Mānuka honey is rare and recognised for its unparalleled potency. It is primarily used for medical purposes and can be recommended for individuals with more severe health issues.
Benefits:
The rare and potent nature of MGO 850+ Mānuka honey means it can provide powerful support for the immune system, enhance wound healing, and combat infections. Its strong antibacterial properties make it suitable for treating chronic conditions and providing substantial therapeutic benefits.
Shop MGO 850+ Mānuka honey
Factors to Consider When Choosing Mānuka Honey
When selecting the best Mānuka honey for your needs, consider the following factors:
Quality and Authenticity:
Ensure the honey is certified as authentic Mānuka honey, preferably with UMF (Unique Mānuka Factor) certification, which guarantees its purity and quality.
Price and Availability:
Higher MGO ratings are typically more expensive and harder to find. Balance your budget with your needs.
Personal Health Goals:
Choose an MGO rating that aligns with your specific health objectives, whether it’s general wellness, immune support, or treating specific conditions.
Conclusion
Mānuka honey is a versatile and valuable natural product, with its benefits largely determined by the MGO rating. Understanding the differences in these ratings can help you choose the best Mānuka honey for your needs, whether it’s for culinary enjoyment, everyday health support, or more intensive therapeutic uses.
Choose Melora for the Best Mānuka Honey
At Melora, we pride ourselves on providing the highest quality Mānuka honey, sourced directly from the untouched, natural environments of New Zealand. Our honey undergoes rigorous testing for Methylglyoxal (MGO) and Unique Mānuka Factor (UMF) levels, guaranteeing its potency and authenticity. We are committed to sustainable practices, working closely with local communities and beekeepers to ensure the health of bee populations and the protection of the environment. With Melora, you can trust that every jar of Mānuka honey is pure, traceable, and crafted with care. Choose us for unmatched quality, transparency, and the exceptional health benefits of genuine Mānuka honey.
