Different Strengths of Manuka Honey: What MGO Rating is Best for You?
Manuka honey is one of nature’s most powerful health foods, but not all Manuka honey is the same. The key to unlocking its full potential lies in understanding its MGO (Methylglyoxal) rating—a measure of its antibacterial strength. But with so many different MGO levels, how do you know which one is right for you?
This guide will help you navigate the various Manuka honey strengths, what they mean, and how to choose the best option for your needs. Whether you’re looking to boost immunity, support digestion, or enhance skincare, you’ll find the ideal MGO rating for your health goals here.
For a broader overview of everything related to Manuka honey, check out our Ultimate Guide to Manuka Honey.
Understanding MGO: Why It Matters
MGO, or Methylglyoxal, is the naturally occurring compound that makes Manuka honey so unique. It’s responsible for the honey’s powerful antibacterial properties and is a key indicator of potency. MGO is produced when another compound, dihydroxyacetone (DHA)—found in the nectar of the Leptospermum flower—converts into MGO during the honey-making process.
The MGO rating represents the concentration of methylglyoxal in milligrams per kilogram of honey. For example:
- MGO 250+ means there are at least 250 mg of Methylglyoxal per kg of honey.
- MGO 500+ contains 500 mg of Methylglyoxal per kg, and so on. The higher the MGO number, the more potent the antibacterial effect. This potency is what sets Manuka honey apart from regular honey, making it highly sought after for its health benefits.

Choosing the Right MGO Rating for You
Different MGO levels have distinct benefits. Here’s a quick guide to the most common strengths and their best uses:
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MGO 250+: Daily Wellness
Great for everyday use, this strength supports general health and adds natural sweetness to recipes. Its moderate antibacterial properties make it ideal for maintaining overall wellness without being overpowering. -
MGO 500+: Advanced Support
Perfect for targeting specific health needs like throat discomfort or adding to herbal teas for enhanced wellness. The higher concentration of MGO means it offers stronger antibacterial effects for more targeted support. -
MGO 800+: Manuka Squared for Ultimate Wellness
Our highest-grade honey offers powerful support for digestive health and skincare. With an MGO rating of 800+, this honey is exceptionally potent and ideal for those seeking maximum health benefits for gut health or using it as a natural topical remedy.

The Role of MGO in Health and Wellness
Why does MGO matter so much? MGO sets Manuka honey apart, giving it unparalleled antibacterial and antimicrobial properties. Studies show that higher MGO levels are linked to greater efficacy in inhibiting bacterial growth. This makes Manuka honey effective not just for internal health, but also for skincare and wound healing.
From MGO 400+ to MGO 800+: Which One Is Best?
If you’re looking for natural health support, the right MGO level makes all the difference. Higher MGO levels, like 500+ and above, are best for specific needs such as digestive support or wound care, while lower levels can be used more casually for everyday wellness. Understanding your needs will help you determine which MGO strength will deliver the best results.
Manuka Squared: Why MGO 800+ is Twice as Nice
Hill Hive’s MGO 800+ honey, that we like to call “Manuka Squared,” is the ultimate in potency. This premium honey has an MGO concentration that’s twice as high as our 400+ grade, offering a robust, full-bodied flavor and exceptional antibacterial properties. Whether you’re using it to support digestion, as a natural skincare remedy, or for targeted wound care, “Manuka Squared” delivers enhanced benefits for your wellness journey.
Learn more: Manuka Manuka: Manuka Squared for Ultimate Wellness
Understanding UMF vs. MGO: What’s the Difference?
When shopping for Manuka honey, you’ll often see UMF (Unique Manuka Factor) and MGO labels. While both are quality indicators, they measure slightly different properties:
- UMF is a holistic measure that includes MGO, DHA, and Leptosperin, covering multiple factors that contribute to the honey’s potency and quality.
- MGO measures the concentration of just Methylglyoxal, which is responsible for the honey’s antibacterial properties.
Knowing the difference can help you choose the right product for your needs.
Choosing Everyday Manuka Honey: Why MGO 250+ Wins
While high MGO levels are suited for specific health needs, MGO 250+ is ideal for daily use. It provides a natural way to boost your wellness without being overpowering, making it an easy addition to your daily routine for general immune support and vitality.
Medicinal Manuka: What’s the Difference?
“Medicinal-grade” Manuka, sometimes referred to as Medi-Honey, is often used for wound care and in clinical settings due to its very high MGO levels (usually MGO 1000+). This grade is extremely potent and should be used sparingly, primarily for targeted applications like wound dressings, infections, or severe skin conditions.
Discover the Best Manuka Honey for Your Needs
Choosing the right MGO strength is the key to getting the most out of your Manuka honey. At Hill Hive, we offer a range of premium Australian Manuka honeys with MGO levels from 250+ to 800+, so you can find the perfect match for your health goals.
Explore our range and find your ideal Manuka honey here, and don’t forget to sign up for our newsletter for more wellness tips and exclusive offers!