Manuka Honey MGO 100+ to MGO 1000+: Which Strength Do You Choose?
Manuka honey is not just any honey. The unique Manuka honey from New Zealand is classified based on its MGO value: a number indicating how much methylglyoxal (MGO) is in the honey. The higher this number, the more intense the taste and the more concentrated the honey. But does higher automatically mean better? And which strength suits your daily use? In this article, we compare all MGO values from 100+ to 1350+.
What exactly is the MGO value?
MGO stands for methylglyoxal, a natural compound that naturally occurs in the nectar of the Manuka bush (Leptospermum scoparium), which only grows in New Zealand. Every jar of Manuka honey lists the MGO value on its label, expressed in milligrams per kilogram. Honey with MGO 400+ therefore contains at least 400 mg of methylglyoxal per kilo. The MGO value is a factual, measurable indicator of composition — not a label of "better" or "worse". The choice of strength is primarily a matter of taste preference, intended use, and budget.
In practice, the MGO number ranges from 100+ to over 1300+, and each of these levels has its own taste profile, texture, and price point. Think of it as a scale: on one end, mild, accessible honey that you can easily use daily, and on the other, concentrated, robust varieties with a distinct character. Below, we'll go through the most important strengths one by one.
MGO 100+ to 250+: mild and accessible
Manuka honey MGO 100+ has a mild, sweet taste and is a great entry point for those new to Manuka honey. One step up is Manuka honey MGO 250+: still accessible in taste, but with a slightly higher MGO concentration.
MGO 400+ and 550+: the popular mid-range
Manuka honey MGO 400+ is one of the most popular strengths: a thick texture, deep golden-brown color, and herbaceous taste. Manuka honey MGO 550+ goes a step further, with a more intense taste and higher MGO concentration — a logical choice for those already familiar with Manuka honey.
MGO 850+: for the seasoned connoisseur
Manuka honey MGO 850+ is thick in texture, slowly flows from the jar, and has a sweet taste with a herbaceous, sometimes slightly bitter undertone. A popular choice for those who consciously want a higher MGO concentration daily.
MGO 1000+ and 1350+: the strongest varieties
At the top are Manuka honey MGO 1000+ and the even more potent Manuka honey MGO 1350+. These varieties contain the highest MGO concentrations from limited harvests and have a pronounced, robust taste. Want to know more? Read our explanation about Manuka honey MGO 1000+.
Which strength do you choose?
| MGO value | Suitable for |
|---|---|
| MGO 100+ | Beginners, mild taste, daily use |
| MGO 250+ | Slight step up towards more potent varieties |
| MGO 400+ | Popular, versatile mid-range |
| MGO 550+ | Experienced users, more intense taste |
| MGO 850+ | Conscious, powerful daily choice |
| MGO 1000+ | Very high concentration, pronounced taste |
| MGO 1350+ | The most potent variety in the assortment |
How to recognize authentic Manuka honey?
For authentic Manuka honey, the MGO value is always clearly stated on the label, so you know exactly what you are buying. Preferably choose a certified webshop or specialty store, like Honingwinkel.nl, where the MGO value per jar is transparently listed. When buying, also pay attention to the country of origin: authentic Manuka honey always comes from New Zealand.
Frequently asked questions
How much MGO Manuka honey is best? There is no single "best" MGO value for everyone. If you are new to Manuka honey, start with MGO 100+ to 250+. If you prefer a more intense taste and higher concentration, MGO 550+ and higher will suit you better.
Is 50 or 100 grams of Manuka honey better? That's not about quality but about convenience. A small jar is useful for trying out or taking with you, while larger jars (250g, 500g, 1 kg) are more economical per gram for regular use. Honey is naturally long-lasting, so a larger jar won't spoil quickly.
How much MGO per day? That depends on how much you use and which strength you choose: a spoonful of MGO 100+ contains much less methylglyoxal than the same spoonful of MGO 1000+. If in doubt, gradually increase and start with a lower strength.
What is the difference between MGO and UMF? MGO indicates the measured amount of methylglyoxal in mg/kg. UMF (Unique Manuka Factor) is a separate quality mark that confirms the authenticity and quality of the honey. Both values say something about the honey but measure slightly different things.
Can I use Manuka honey daily? Yes, many users take a teaspoon daily, for example, in the morning on an empty stomach before breakfast. Choose the strength that suits your taste and use.
Why is Manuka honey with a higher MGO value more expensive? The higher the MGO value, the rarer and more limited the harvest. Manuka bushes do not produce the same amount of nectar with a high MGO concentration every year, making honey with MGO 850+ and higher scarcer than the milder varieties. This scarcity, combined with strict independent authenticity tests, explains the higher price point of the strongest strengths.
Does the taste vary by MGO value? Yes, distinctly. Lower MGO values like 100+ and 250+ taste milder and sweeter, while higher values like 850+ to 1350+ have a thicker texture and a more intense, herbaceous to slightly bitter taste.
Curious which strength suits you? View the complete Manuka honey assortment at Honingwinkel.nl.
