Manuka Honey MGO 850 vs Higher Grades: What Are the Differences?

Manuka honey comes in different MGO ratings, and comparing these numbers can help shoppers understand the differences between products. Manuka Honey MGO 850 is a high-strength option, while grades above 850 offer an even higher measured concentration of methylglyoxal.

Understanding how these ratings differ can help you compare products based on strength, intended use, quality information, and price.

What Does MGO Mean in Manuka Honey?

MGO stands for methylglyoxal, a naturally occurring compound found in Manuka honey. The MGO rating indicates the measured concentration of methylglyoxal in the honey.

For example, an MGO 850 product contains approximately 850 mg of MGO per kilogram. A product with a higher MGO rating has a greater measured concentration.

The MGO number is useful for comparing strength, but it should not be considered the only measure of overall honey quality.

Understanding Manuka Honey MGO 850

Manuka Honey MGO 850 is considered a high-MGO grade. It provides a substantial concentration of methylglyoxal compared with many lower-rated Manuka honey products.

For consumers who want a strong MGO rating without moving into the highest available grades, MGO 850 can be an option worth considering.

The choice still depends on individual preferences, intended use, product availability, and budget.

MGO 850 vs Higher MGO Grades

The primary difference between MGO 850 and higher grades is the measured concentration of MGO.

For example, a product rated MGO 1000 or MGO 1200 contains a higher concentration of MGO than MGO 850. This does not necessarily mean that the higher-rated product is suitable for everyone.

The main differences can be understood through several factors:

MGO Concentration

MGO 850 contains approximately 850 mg of MGO per kilogram. Higher-rated products contain greater measured concentrations.

Price

Higher MGO grades may cost more because they represent a higher-strength category and can be less common. MGO 850 may provide a different price point for consumers comparing high-MGO options.

Availability

Not every retailer carries every MGO grade. Higher ratings can have more limited availability, depending on the producer and market.

Intended Use

Some consumers choose Manuka honey for everyday food use, while others specifically seek high-MGO products. Your intended use can help determine which rating is appropriate for you.

Is a Higher MGO Rating Always Better?

A higher MGO rating does not automatically mean the honey is better for every consumer. It simply indicates a higher measured concentration of MGO.

For example, someone who wants Manuka honey for regular consumption may prefer a lower or mid-range rating. Someone specifically interested in a high MGO concentration may consider MGO 850 or higher grades.

The right choice depends on your individual preferences rather than the number alone.

What Makes Quality Manuka Honey?

When comparing products, MGO should be considered alongside other quality factors. These may include the honey's origin, authenticity, testing, processing, storage, and labelling.

Consumers searching for the best australian manuka honey should look beyond promotional descriptions and examine the actual product information.

Clear labelling can help you understand the MGO rating, origin, producer details, and other relevant information before purchasing.

How to Choose Between MGO 850 and Higher Grades

Start by deciding why you want Manuka honey. If your main interest is a high MGO rating, compare MGO 850 with higher grades based on the concentration and price.

You should also check:

• The stated MGO rating
• Product origin
• Authenticity information
• Testing or certification details
• Product size
• Storage instructions
• Price per jar or per gram

This makes it easier to compare products based on several practical factors instead of focusing only on the highest number.

Storing High-MGO Manuka Honey

Proper storage is important for maintaining honey quality. Keep the container sealed and store it in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and excessive heat.

Always follow the storage recommendations provided on the product packaging.

Final Thoughts

Manuka Honey MGO 850 is a high-strength grade that contains approximately 850 mg of methylglyoxal per kilogram. Higher grades have greater measured MGO concentrations, but the difference does not automatically make them the right choice for every consumer.

When comparing MGO 850 with higher grades, consider MGO concentration, price, origin, authenticity, testing, availability, and intended use. Looking at the complete product profile can help you make a more informed choice.