Manuka Honey MGO 550 vs MGO 850: Understanding the Difference
Manuka honey is available in many MGO ratings, which can make it difficult for new buyers to understand which option suits their needs. Two higher-strength options that consumers may compare are Manuka Honey MGO 550 and MGO 850.
Both ratings indicate a measured concentration of methylglyoxal, but the numbers are different. Understanding this difference can help you compare Manuka honey products more clearly.
What Does MGO Mean?
MGO stands for methylglyoxal, a naturally occurring compound found in Manuka honey. The MGO rating indicates the measured amount of methylglyoxal in the honey.
An MGO 550 product contains approximately 550 mg of MGO per kilogram, while an MGO 850 product contains approximately 850 mg per kilogram.
Therefore, MGO 850 has a higher measured MGO concentration than MGO 550.
What Is Manuka Honey MGO 550?
Manuka Honey MGO 550 is considered a higher-strength Manuka honey grade. Its rating indicates approximately 550 mg of methylglyoxal per kilogram of honey.
It can be a suitable option for consumers who want a relatively high MGO rating without selecting one of the highest grades available.
The MGO number is useful for comparison, but it does not describe every characteristic of the honey, such as flavour, texture, origin, or processing.
What Is MGO 850?
MGO 850 has a higher measured concentration of methylglyoxal than MGO 550. At approximately 850 mg per kilogram, it sits further up the MGO scale.
Consumers who specifically want a higher MGO concentration may compare MGO 850 with MGO 550 and other high-strength grades.
However, choosing a higher number does not automatically mean that the product is better for every person. Intended use, preferences, and budget should also be considered.
MGO 550 vs MGO 850
The main difference is the MGO concentration.
| Feature | MGO 550 | MGO 850 |
|---|---|---|
| MGO concentration | Approximately 550 mg/kg | Approximately 850 mg/kg |
| Relative strength | High | Higher |
| MGO level | Lower than MGO 850 | Higher than MGO 550 |
| Price | May be more accessible | May cost more |
These differences can help buyers understand what the two ratings represent. They do not, however, determine every aspect of product quality.
Which Rating Should You Choose?
There is no single MGO rating that is right for everyone. MGO 550 may appeal to someone who wants a high MGO concentration while considering price. MGO 850 may appeal to someone specifically looking for a higher MGO level.
Consider your intended use and budget before making a decision. You should also review the product’s origin, testing, authenticity information, and other label details.
Check the Product Origin
Origin is another important consideration when purchasing Manuka honey. Genuine Manuka honey is associated with nectar from the Manuka plant, which is native to New Zealand.
If you are searching for manuka honey perth or purchasing from a local seller, check the product label carefully to understand where the honey itself was produced.
A honey product being sold in a particular Australian city does not necessarily mean the honey was produced there.
What Should You Check Before Buying?
Whether you choose MGO 550 or MGO 850, review the product information carefully.
Look for:
- Clearly stated MGO rating
- Country of origin
- Producer information
- Product weight
- Batch details
- Testing or certification information where available
- Storage instructions
Comparing these details can help you evaluate different products rather than focusing only on the MGO number.
Does Higher MGO Mean Better Quality?
A higher MGO rating means a higher measured concentration of methylglyoxal. It does not automatically mean that one product is better for every consumer.
Quality can also involve authenticity, sourcing, processing, testing, freshness, and accurate labelling.
For this reason, MGO should be considered alongside other product information when comparing Manuka honey.
Final Thoughts
Manuka Honey MGO 550 and MGO 850 are both higher-strength grades, but MGO 850 contains a higher measured concentration of methylglyoxal. MGO 550 may be suitable for consumers looking for a high MGO level, while MGO 850 provides a higher rating for those specifically seeking greater MGO concentration.
Before buying, compare the MGO level with the product’s origin, authenticity information, testing, size, price, and intended use. This gives you a clearer basis for choosing between the two grades.