Understanding MGO:
MGO stands for Methylglyoxal, a naturally occurring compound in genuine Manuka honey. Extensive Australian research has established MGO as a globally recognized and precise unit of measurement for assessing Manuka honey.
The MGO rating or number serves as an indicator of the quality and purity of Manuka honey – the higher the rating, the greater the quality. It’s a straightforward concept. However, you may wonder how UMF, NPA, and ULF ratings fit into the picture.
Understanding UMF:
Unique Manuka Factor (UMF) is a rating system distinctively utilized by honey makers in New Zealand. UMF ratings encompass various tests, including MGO and dihydroxyacetone assessments. This rating system evaluates different chemical markers present in Manuka honey, with UMF measured in smaller numbers compared to MGO.
Understanding MGO and UMF™ Grading Systems:
MGO Rating System:
Methylglyoxal (MGO) is a naturally occurring compound present in Manuka honey, contributing to its distinctive antibacterial potency. The numerical value following ‘MGO’ indicates the quantity of methylglyoxal in milligrams per kilogram. For instance, an MGO250+ Manuka honey product is certified to contain a minimum of 250mg of methylglyoxal per kilogram of honey.
UMF™ Grading System:
UMF™, or Unique Manuka Factor, represents the sole standardized industry-wide indicator for authentic New Zealand Manuka honey. It serves as a definitive mark verifying the potency, purity, freshness, and New Zealand origin of a Manuka honey product.
Additionally, the UMF™ mark guarantees compliance with the New Zealand government regulatory standard for Manuka honey. It ensures the presence of the comprehensive array of phytochemicals that make Manuka unique. While MGO is a component, it alone does not offer the same level of assurance as the UMF™ mark.
MGO vs UMF™ – Making the Right Choice:
The primary distinction between MGO and UMF™ lies in their measuring criteria. While MGO solely assesses the methylglyoxal element and its potency in Manuka honey, UMF™ takes a more comprehensive approach by measuring three key chemical compounds: dihydroxyacetone (DHA), leptosperin, and methylglyoxal.
Relying solely on MGO for measurement might not provide sufficient assurance regarding the authenticity, purity, and overall quality of the Manuka honey you’re considering. UMF™, with its broader scope, emerges as a more accurate indicator of authenticity, purity, and overall honey quality.
