Best Manuka Honey – New Zealand

Tag: Mānuka Honey UMF MGO

  • UMF vs MGO Understanding the Potency of Manuka Honey

    UMF vs MGO Understanding the Potency of Manuka Honey

    Table of Contents

    Introduction

    Manuka honey, a unique and highly sought-after honey produced in New Zealand from the nectar of Manuka flowers, has gained increasing popularity in recent years. This is due to its reported health benefits and robust flavor profile. When it comes to measuring the potency of Manuka honey, there are two main rating systems to consider: UMF (Unique Manuka Factor) and MGO (Methylglyoxal).

    Testing Manuka Honey

    Testing Manuka honey is crucial to ensure quality assurance, authenticity, consistency, and reputation. It guarantees that the honey is of high quality, free of contamination, and meets the necessary standards for consumption. Testing also helps maintain the integrity of the product, which is essential for consumers who rely on Manuka honey for its potential health benefits. Overall, testing Manuka honey ensures that consumers receive a high-quality and authentic product.

    The UMF Rating System

    One type of rating system used to measure the potency of Manuka honey is UMF. UMF measures the presence of certain markers in the honey that indicate its purity and potency. These markers include leptosperin, DHA (dihydroxyacetone), and MGO (methylglyoxal). The higher the UMF rating, the higher the concentration of these markers, and therefore, the higher the potency of the honey.

    The UMF rating system ranges from UMF 5+ to UMF 20+, with higher numbers indicating higher levels of purity and potency. Testing Manuka honey for UMF involves collecting a sample and analyzing it in a laboratory to determine the concentration of the markers. The honey is then assigned a UMF rating based on the results.

    The following is a breakdown of the UMF ratings for Manuka honey:

    • UMF 5+: This is the lowest rating and indicates a low level of potency.
    • UMF 10+: This rating indicates a medium level of potency.
    • UMF 15+: This rating indicates a high level of potency.
    • UMF 20+: This is the highest rating available and indicates an extremely high level of potency.

    The MGO Rating System

    Another rating system used to measure the potency of Manuka honey is MGO. MGO measures the concentration of methylglyoxal, a compound believed to be responsible for the honey’s antibacterial properties. The higher the MGO rating, the stronger the antibacterial properties of the honey.

    The MGO rating system ranges from MGO 30+ to MGO 1000+, with higher numbers indicating higher antibacterial potency. Testing Manuka honey for MGO involves measuring the concentration of methylglyoxal in the honey using techniques such as HPLC (high-performance liquid chromatography) and NMR (nuclear magnetic resonance) spectroscopy.

    The following is a breakdown of the MGO ratings for Manuka honey:

    • MGO 30+: This is the lowest rating and indicates a low level of antibacterial activity.
    • MGO 100+: This rating indicates a medium level of antibacterial activity.
    • MGO 250+: This rating indicates a high level of antibacterial activity and is often used for therapeutic purposes.
    • MGO 400+: This rating indicates a very high level of antibacterial activity and is also used for therapeutic purposes.
    • MGO 550+: This is a rare and very high rating, indicating an extremely potent antibacterial activity.
    • MGO 1000+: This is the highest rating available and indicates an extremely potent antibacterial activity.

    UMF vs MGO: Which Rating System is Superior?

    Both the UMF and MGO rating systems provide valuable information about the potency of Manuka honey. However, they measure different properties of the honey. UMF ratings take into account multiple markers, including MGO, to assess the overall potency and quality of the honey. On the other hand, MGO ratings focus solely on the concentration of methylglyoxal, which is responsible for the honey’s antibacterial properties.

    When choosing between UMF and MGO Manuka honey, it is important to consider your specific needs and preferences. If you are seeking a honey with a broad range of beneficial properties, including antibacterial activity, UMF Manuka honey may be the superior choice. UMF ratings provide a more comprehensive assessment of the honey’s quality and potency.

    Additionally, UMF Manuka honey is produced naturally without heat treatment or artificial methods, ensuring that it retains all of its natural enzymes and other beneficial properties. This makes it a popular choice among consumers who value the holistic benefits of Manuka honey.

    On the other hand, MGO Manuka honey is known for its high concentration of methylglyoxal and its strong antibacterial properties. However, some producers may heat-treat the honey to increase the MGO content, which can result in the loss of natural enzymes and other beneficial properties. Therefore, even if you think you’re getting honey with a high MGO content, it may not be genuine or offer the same comprehensive benefits as UMF Manuka honey.

    In conclusion, both UMF and MGO rating systems are used to measure the potency of Manuka honey. While MGO Manuka honey may be beneficial for its antibacterial properties, UMF Manuka honey is considered the superior choice. It provides a more holistic assessment of the honey’s quality and potency, ensuring that consumers receive a high-quality and authentic product.

    For more information on Manuka honey and its benefits, visit About Manuka Honey.

  • What Do Different MGO Grades Mean?

    What Do Different MGO Grades Mean?

    Table of Contents

    Introduction

    When it comes to Manuka honey, you may have come across different grades, such as MGO 50+ or MGO 1000+. But what exactly do these grades mean? In this article, we will explore the significance of MGO grades and how they determine the potency of Manuka honey.

    How is Manuka Honey Graded?

    Manukora Manuka honey undergoes extensive testing at third-party laboratories to ensure authenticity, potency, and safety. One of the crucial tests conducted is the Methylglyoxal (MGO) test. This test measures the concentration of MGO in the honey, which determines its strength or potency.

    Once the MGO testing is completed and the honey meets all other requirements, it is packaged and labeled with the closest MGO grade. Manukora offers MGO grades ranging from MGO 50+ to MGO 1000+ and above for special harvests. The labels clearly state the minimum level of MGO present in the honey, although it often exceeds this amount.

    What is So Special About MGO?

    MGO is a naturally occurring antibacterial compound found in the nectar of the Manuka tea tree flower. This nectar contains a unique natural sugar called DHA (dihydroxyacetone). Bees convert some of the DHA into MGO, while the remaining DHA slowly releases more of this powerful constituent in the honey.

    Extensive studies have demonstrated the antibacterial properties of MGO, including its ability to inhibit harmful bacteria like E Coli and MRSA. Moreover, MGO serves as a marker for potency, as higher MGO levels indicate a higher concentration of other key bioactive compounds, such as Leptosperin, an antioxidant found only in Manuka honey.

    Why Do MGO Levels Differ?

    Several factors contribute to the variation in MGO levels in Manuka honey:

    1. Geographical Location: New Zealand’s diverse geography, ranging from subtropical rainforests to snow-capped mountains, results in different strains of Manuka tea trees and variations in soil composition. These factors impact the MGO levels in the honey.

    2. Weather: Weather conditions play a crucial role in the concentration of MGO. The Manuka tea tree flowers for a limited period, typically two to six weeks during the summer, and requires hot and sunny weather for optimal nectar flow. New Zealand’s variable weather leads to different results each year, even from the same locations.

    3. Beekeeping: Manukora’s master beekeepers have access to remote Manuka forests and prioritize high-quality beekeeping practices to ensure the bees remain healthy year-round. Healthy bees are essential for producing highly active Manuka honey during the short nectar flow season.

    The UMF Rating System

    The Unique Manuka Factor (UMF) grading system, developed by the UMF Association, helps identify genuine Manuka honey. Manukora is a member of this association. The UMF grading system tests for MGO, DHA, HMF, and Leptosperin. The UMF grade is directly linked to MGO, with higher MGO levels corresponding to higher UMF grades.

    For example:

    • UMF 5+ corresponds to MGO 83+
    • UMF 10+ corresponds to MGO 263+
    • UMF 15+ corresponds to MGO 514+
    • UMF 20+ corresponds to MGO 829+

    Manukora conducts extensive testing, covering all UMF tests, and additional safety tests not covered by UMF, such as glyphosate residue. Customers can access these test results through the QR trace system provided.

    To ensure clarity and simplicity, Manukora uses only the MGO system for grading on their labels.

    Conclusion

    The concentration of key bioactive compounds in Manuka honey is crucial for its potency and effectiveness. However, these concentrations can vary due to natural and environmental factors. Understanding the grading system can be confusing, but it is essential for making informed choices when purchasing Manuka honey.

    Manukora’s MGO grading system ensures high levels of all key bioactive compounds in their honey. The higher the MGO number, the higher the concentration of the unique antibacterial compound MGO, as well as other bioactives like Leptosperin. When buying Manukora Manuka honey, you can be confident in its rich, smooth, and creamy caramel flavor, sourced from the rare and beautiful Manuka tea tree in the wild forests of New Zealand.

    For further information on understanding the significance of different honey gradings and the colors associated with various honey types, you can refer to the Honey Gluten-Free Guide and Manuka Honey Color Guide. If you are interested in the digestive health benefits of Manuka honey, our guide on Manuka Honey for Digestive Health offers valuable insights.

    When it comes to high UMF Manuka honey, Manukora stands as a reliable source for premium quality honey that meets the highest standards. So, if you’re in search of manuka honey high UMF, look no further than Manukora for a truly exceptional product.

  • UMF vs MGO Choosing the Best Mānuka Honey for Your Health

    UMF vs MGO Choosing the Best Mānuka Honey for Your Health

    Table of Contents

    Mānuka honey has gained a reputation as a powerhouse of health benefits, often surpassing the benefits of the common apple. In the world of Mānuka honey, two main rating systems, UMF (Unique Mānuka Factor) and MGO (Methylglyoxal), play a crucial role in determining the quality and potency of this golden elixir.

    At https://aboutmanukahoney.com, we understand the importance of selecting the right Mānuka honey for your needs. That’s why we’re here to guide you through the differences between UMF and MGO and help you make an informed choice.

    Mānuka Honey Ratings Overview

    When exploring the world of Mānuka honey, it’s essential to understand the distinction between UMF and MGO ratings. These ratings provide valuable information about the honey’s quality and potency.

    MGO Rating System

    The MGO rating system measures the concentration of methylglyoxal, a key component responsible for the honey’s unique properties. This rating system directly correlates to the honey’s potency and effectiveness. A higher MGO rating indicates a higher concentration of methylglyoxal, signifying a more potent honey.

    UMF Rating System

    The UMF rating system, which stands for Unique Mānuka Factor, is a globally recognized standard for assessing the potency of Mānuka honey. Unlike the MGO rating system, the UMF system takes into account multiple markers, including the presence of leptosperin and dihydroxyacetone. This comprehensive approach ensures a more accurate evaluation of the honey’s unique properties and benefits.

    The UMF rating system ranges from UMF 5+ to UMF 20+, with higher numbers indicating a higher concentration of beneficial compounds. If you’re looking for a more comprehensive assessment of your Mānuka honey’s quality, the UMF rating system is the gold standard. However, it’s important to note that the UMF rating system is more expensive for manufacturers to adhere to due to higher compliance and testing costs.

    Choosing Mānuka Honey

    When deciding between UMF and MGO, your choice ultimately depends on personal preference. Both rating systems are highly respected and provide valuable information about the honey’s authenticity and potency. However, UMF rated products tend to be perceived as more premium, often accompanied by a higher price tag.

    When purchasing Mānuka honey, it’s crucial to look for authenticity and quality markers. To ensure that you’re buying a high-quality product and not a cheap knock-off, it’s advisable to purchase from reputable brands or certified suppliers.

    New Zealand Origin

    New Zealand, with its pristine landscapes and unique flora, serves as the birthplace of Mānuka honey. The native Mānuka tree, found exclusively in New Zealand, provides the nectar that gives this honey its remarkable properties. The country’s strict regulations guarantee the honey’s purity and authenticity, making Mānuka honey from New Zealand highly sought after worldwide.

    Medical Grade Mānuka

    Mānuka honey with a very high UMF/MGO rating is classified as medical grade. Any Mānuka honey with a UMF rating of 10 or higher falls into this category. Medical grade Mānuka honey is often sought after for its exceptional healing abilities and is used in various medical applications.

    Bioactive Properties

    The bioactive properties of high-quality Mānuka honey contribute to its remarkable healing abilities, particularly in wound healing. Studies have shown that regular application of Mānuka honey can lead to significantly faster healing rates compared to standard treatments for chronic leg ulcers.

    Regardless of whether you choose UMF or MGO rated Mānuka honey, the bioactive properties inherent in Mānuka honey make it a powerful natural remedy for various health conditions.

    KFactor and Mānuka Honey

    While UMF and MGO are the most commonly recognized rating systems for Mānuka honey, there is another system known as KFactor. The KFactor rating measures the purity of Mānuka honey by analyzing the pollen content. A higher KFactor indicates a higher purity of the honey, ensuring that it is made mostly from the nectar of the Mānuka flower. This type of honey, known as monofloral honey, provides all the natural benefits associated with Mānuka honey.

    The KFactor rating system focuses on the purity and origin of the honey.

    Conclusion

    In the world of Mānuka honey, both UMF and MGO ratings play a significant role in assessing the quality and potency of this remarkable elixir. By understanding the differences between UMF and MGO, you can confidently choose the right Mānuka honey for your needs.

    At https://aboutmanukahoney.com, we offer a wide range of Mānuka honey options, adhering to both UMF and MGO rating specifications. Our commitment to authenticity and quality ensures that you receive the full potential of this extraordinary honey.

    So, go ahead and indulge in the sweet world of Mānuka honey, knowing that you’ve made an informed choice in selecting the best honey for your health.