MANUKA HONEY WITH METHYLGLYOXAL (MGO)

MNZ produces exclusively monofloral Manuka honey derived from the New Zealand Manuka plant (Leptospermum scoparium), which ranges from small shrubs to flowering trees. Our beehives are positioned in remote regions of New Zealand, allowing bees to forage in undisturbed natural environments.

Methylglyoxal (MGO) is one of the key naturally occurring compounds found in Manuka honey. Professor Thomas Henle and his research team identified MGO as a measurable marker within Manuka honey in 2006. The quantification of MGO forms part of the science-based classification system and aligns with standards required by the New Zealand Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI).

Science

Research into Manuka honey has been conducted for decades. Professor Thomas Henle and his team at the Technical University of Dresden demonstrated that methylglyoxal can be accurately measured and quantified in Manuka honey.

MGO is expressed in milligrams per kilogram (mg/kg). For example, MGO 100+ indicates a minimum of 100 mg of methylglyoxal per kilogram of honey. Classifications may range from 100+ to 1500+ mg/kg and beyond, depending on verified laboratory results.

Scientific Insight

Researchers including Professor Thomas Henle, Professor Peter Molan and other international scientists have contributed to the understanding of the unique chemical profile of Manuka honey. Their work has helped establish measurable quality parameters and improved standardisation within the industry.

“A grading system must be scientifically sound and based on a method that has been published, tested and can be used in laboratories. This is certainly the case for the Methylglyoxal (MGO) Manuka honey classification.”

Professor Thomas Henle, Technical University of Dresden

“Testing for Methylglyoxal (MGO) provides a clear and measurable way to classify Manuka honey.”

Professor Peter Molan, University of Waikato

MGO (Methylglyoxal) as a Scientific Benchmark

Measuring MGO levels provides a transparent and quantitative method for grading Manuka honey. For example, Manuka honey labelled MGO 550+ must contain at least 550 mg/kg of methylglyoxal as verified through laboratory testing.

Professor Peter Molan’s earlier research at the University of Waikato contributed significantly to international recognition of Manuka honey and to the development of grading systems within the industry. Ongoing scientific research continues to examine the natural composition of Manuka honey and its measurable markers.