What is the MGO rating in Manuka honey? 4 Health Benefits & Tips for Choosing the Right Type
Manuka honey has long been renowned for its health benefits. One of the most important criteria of its quality is the MGO index, a powerful antibacterial compound that defines the honey’s effectiveness and value.
What is the MGO index?
MGO stands for Methylglyoxal, a natural compound found exclusively in Manuka flowers. The MGO rating indicates the concentration of Methylglyoxal in the honey: the higher the MGO, the stronger its antibacterial and health-boosting properties .

Health Benefits of High MGO Levels
Scientific studies have verified that MGO in Manuka honey can:
- Kill harmful bacteria, including antibiotic-resistant strains, making it effective against infections.
- Speed up wound healing, reduce inflammation, and support tissue regeneration—helpful for treating burns, ulcers, and scrapes. It also boosts immune support and digestion when consumed.

Tips for Choosing Based on MGO Level
Selecting the right Manuka honey depends on your health needs:
MGO 100+: Ideal for daily general health support and improving digestion.
MGO 250+: With stronger antibacterial action, it’s suited for alleviating throat infections, colds, and mild digestive issues—great for occasional use or when you need more immune support.
MGO 850+ (Faroson’s highest): Highly potent, often used for serious infections, chronic issues, or wound recovery
Summarize
| MGO Level | Best For |
| 100+ | Daily use, digestion, general wellness |
| 250+ | Mild infections, colds, throat support |
| 850+ | Intensive support, wound healing, chronic issues |
Conclusion
The MGO index is key to understanding the strength and purpose of Manuka honey. Knowing the appropriate level for your needs helps you use it more effectively—and avoid overpaying for unnecessarily high potency. Always look for reputable certification and trustworthy labels to ensure genuine quality.








