Australian Manuka Honey MGO 1200: Uses, Properties and Precautions

Australian Manuka honey has become increasingly popular among consumers looking for a premium natural honey with distinctive properties. Among the higher-strength options available, Manuka Honey MGO 1200+ is notable for its exceptionally high methylglyoxal (MGO) rating.

But what does MGO 1200+ actually mean? What are its natural properties, how can it be used, and what precautions should consumers keep in mind?

Understanding these factors can help Australian consumers make informed choices when selecting high-MGO Manuka honey for everyday use.

What Is Australian Manuka Honey?

Australian Manuka honey is produced by bees that collect nectar from Leptospermum plants. Australia has more than 80 native Leptospermum species growing across a wide range of environments, from coastal regions to mountainous areas. This diversity provides a distinctive source for Australian Manuka honey.

Manuka honey can be produced as a monofloral Manuka honey or as a multifloral blend, depending on the floral sources visited by the bees. Natural differences in plant species, location and nectar can influence the characteristics and MGO levels of individual honey batches.

For Australian consumers, origin and authenticity are therefore important considerations when purchasing premium Manuka honey.

What Does MGO 1200+ Mean?

MGO stands for methylglyoxal, a naturally occurring compound found in Manuka honey.

The MGO number indicates the measured concentration of methylglyoxal in the honey. An MGO 1200+ rating represents a very high concentration, with the “1200+” designation indicating a minimum MGO level associated with that rating.

MGO is particularly important because it provides a measurable way of describing the strength of Manuka honey. The Australian Manuka Honey Association identifies MGO as a key measurement used in assessing Australian Manuka honey and notes that it can be directly measured through laboratory testing.

The MGO level develops naturally from dihydroxyacetone (DHA), which occurs in the nectar of some Leptospermum plants. As the honey matures, DHA can convert into MGO.

Key Properties of MGO 1200+ Manuka Honey

High MGO Concentration

The defining characteristic of MGO 1200+ Manuka honey is its high methylglyoxal concentration. This makes it a particularly concentrated type of Manuka honey for consumers who specifically want a high-MGO product.

MGO should not be confused with the overall nutritional value of honey. Honey remains a naturally sugary food, and its MGO rating primarily describes a particular compound rather than calories, sugar content or a complete nutritional profile.

Naturally Occurring Compounds

Authentic Manuka honey contains naturally occurring compounds associated with Leptospermum nectar. In addition to MGO, the Australian Manuka Honey Association identifies DHA and other chemical markers as useful when assessing authenticity.

Distinctive Flavour

High-grade Manuka honey generally has a stronger and more distinctive flavour than many conventional honeys. Depending on the batch and floral source, it can have rich, earthy and slightly caramel-like characteristics.

This makes MGO 1200+ suitable for consumers who appreciate Manuka honey not only as a natural sweetener but also as a premium food with a distinctive taste.

Australian Origin

Australian Manuka honey has a unique connection to the country's native Leptospermum species. For consumers specifically seeking Australian Manuka honey, checking the origin information on the packaging is an important step.

The AMHA Mark of Authenticity is designed to identify Australian Manuka honey that meets the association's defined criteria, including independent laboratory testing.

Common Uses of MGO 1200+ Manuka Honey

MGO 1200+ Manuka honey can be incorporated into everyday meals and routines in several ways.

1. Enjoy It Directly

Some consumers prefer to enjoy a small amount of Manuka honey directly from a spoon. This allows the honey's natural flavour and texture to be experienced without other ingredients.

2. Add It to Breakfast

Manuka honey can be added to everyday breakfast foods such as:

• Toast

• Porridge

• Greek yoghurt

• Fresh fruit

• Smoothie bowls

• Cereals

The rich flavour of high-MGO Manuka honey can add sweetness without requiring additional processed sweeteners.

3. Use It in Warm Drinks

A small amount can be stirred into a warm drink such as tea or water. Allowing very hot beverages to cool slightly before adding honey can help preserve its natural characteristics.

4. Include It in Recipes

MGO 1200+ Manuka honey can also be used as a natural sweetening ingredient in homemade recipes. It can complement dressings, marinades, desserts and other foods where a rich honey flavour is suitable.

MGO 1200+ and Everyday Wellness

Manuka honey is often associated with wellness because of its naturally occurring compounds, including MGO. The Australian Manuka Honey Association notes that MGO is closely associated with the distinctive activity of Manuka honey.

However, consumers should distinguish between enjoying Manuka honey as a food and using it as a medical treatment.

A high MGO number does not mean that the honey should replace prescribed medicines, professional medical care or a balanced diet. Claims about treating or preventing specific medical conditions should be assessed carefully and discussed with an appropriate healthcare professional.

How to Choose Quality Australian MGO 1200+ Manuka Honey

When buying Manuka Honey MGO 1200, consider more than the number printed on the jar.

Check the MGO Rating

Look for a clearly stated MGO rating and understand what the number represents. A high MGO rating should be supported by appropriate testing.

Check the Country of Origin

If Australian origin matters to you, check that the product clearly identifies its Australian source.

Look for Independent Testing

Independent laboratory testing can help verify the stated MGO level. The AMHA quality framework places importance on traceability and independent laboratory testing for authentic Australian Manuka honey.

Look for Authenticity Information

The AMHA Mark of Authenticity indicates that a product has been tested according to the association's criteria for authentic Australian Manuka honey. Products carrying the mark must meet defined MGO and DHA requirements and be produced in Australia.

Precautions When Consuming MGO 1200+ Manuka Honey

Although Manuka honey is a natural food, there are several precautions worth remembering.

Do Not Give Honey to Babies Under 12 Months

Honey should not be given to babies younger than 12 months because of the risk of infant botulism. Australia's healthdirect specifically advises against feeding honey to babies under 12 months.

Remember That Honey Contains Natural Sugars

The Sunhighlands MGO 1200+ product information lists approximately 8.2 g of carbohydrate and 8.2 g of total sugars per 10 g serving.

For this reason, Manuka honey should be consumed in appropriate quantities as part of an overall balanced diet.

Consider Individual Dietary Needs

People managing diabetes, allergies or other dietary concerns should consider their individual requirements before regularly consuming honey. If you have a specific medical or dietary condition, seek advice from a qualified healthcare professional.

Do Not Treat MGO as a Medical Dosage

MGO 1200+ describes the concentration of methylglyoxal in the honey. It is not a medical dosage or prescription strength. Consumers should not assume that a higher MGO number automatically makes honey appropriate for treating a particular health condition.

Why MGO 1200+ Is Different From Lower MGO Grades

Manuka honey is available in a broad range of MGO ratings. Generally, the MGO number provides a measurable indication of the amount of methylglyoxal present.

An MGO 1200+ product therefore represents a substantially higher MGO concentration than products carrying lower MGO ratings.

The Sunhighlands product referenced for this article is marketed as Manuka Honey MGO 1200+, supplied in a 250 g jar and described by the retailer as Australian-sourced Manuka honey from northern New South Wales. The product page also states that it is independently tested for authenticity and strength.

Consumers should always refer to the current product packaging and batch information for the most accurate product-specific details.

Final Thoughts

Australian Manuka Honey MGO 1200+ is a high-MGO honey distinguished by its naturally high methylglyoxal concentration. Its Australian origin, Leptospermum floral source and measurable MGO content make it a distinctive premium honey choice.

It can be enjoyed in a variety of everyday ways, including directly from the spoon, with breakfast foods, in warm drinks or as an ingredient in recipes.

When choosing MGO 1200+ Manuka honey, pay attention to Australian origin, MGO testing, authenticity information, traceability and responsible consumption. Most importantly, remember that Manuka honey is a food, not a substitute for professional medical treatment.

With these considerations in mind, MGO 1200+ Manuka honey can be appreciated for what it is: a distinctive Australian honey with a naturally high concentration of one of the compounds that characterises Manuka honey.