MGO 100 Manuka Honey: A Guide to Choosing the Best Manuka for Your Health

Manuka honey has rapidly become a staple in wellness routines around the globe, praised not only for its rich taste but also for its wide range of health benefits. Derived from the Leptospermum scoparium plant—commonly known as the manuka bush—this special variety of honey is produced in New Zealand and parts of Australia, where the plant is native.

Among the many grades and varieties available, MGO 100 manuka honey stands out as a gentle yet effective option for those looking to explore manuka honey for daily health and well-being. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore what MGO 100 means, its benefits, and how to find the best manuka honey that suits your needs.

Understanding MGO in Manuka Honey

MGO, short for methylglyoxal, is the compound primarily responsible for manuka honey's unique antibacterial properties. This natural chemical forms from dihydroxyacetone (DHA), which is found in the nectar of manuka flowers.

The MGO number on a label—such as MGO 100 manuka honey—represents the concentration of methylglyoxal in milligrams per kilogram of honey. Here’s a general guide to MGO grading:

• MGO 100: Entry-level, great for everyday use and general wellness.

• MGO 250–400: Mid-range strength, suitable for immune support and digestive health.

• MGO 550+: High potency, used for more therapeutic or topical applications.

Why Choose MGO 100 Manuka Honey?

If you're new to manuka honey, MGO 100 manuka honey offers an excellent starting point. While it may not be as concentrated as higher MGO varieties, it still provides several valuable benefits:

1. Everyday Immune Support

This grade is ideal for daily immune system maintenance. It supports the body’s natural defenses without being overly intense, making it perfect for both adults and children (under the guidance of a healthcare provider).

2. Digestive Health

MGO 100 honey can help promote gut balance thanks to its prebiotic properties. Taken in the morning on an empty stomach, it may help soothe mild digestive issues and support overall gut function.

3. Sore Throat Relief

The smooth, thick texture of manuka honey helps coat the throat, while its antibacterial activity fights off minor infections. A teaspoon of MGO 100 mixed into warm water or tea can be a soothing home remedy.

4. Natural Energy Booster

With its natural sugars and trace nutrients, manuka honey makes for a healthier alternative to refined sugar or energy drinks. Many people use it as a pre-workout energy source or a mid-day pick-me-up.

Choosing the Best Manuka Honey

Selecting the best manuka honey requires attention to detail. With increasing global demand, the market has seen a rise in misleading labels and counterfeit products. Here are a few tips to ensure you're getting the real deal:

Look for Verified Certification

Trustworthy manuka honey brands will include either an MGO or UMF (Unique Manuka Factor) certification. These labels indicate that the honey has been independently tested for its methylglyoxal content. UMF certifications also measure other beneficial compounds like leptosperin and DHA.

Confirm Country of Origin

Genuine manuka honey is produced in New Zealand and some parts of Australia. Reputable brands will clearly state the source of their honey and may even provide traceability tools, such as QR codes linking to batch testing results.

Choose Raw and Unpasteurized Honey

To retain its full range of natural enzymes and antibacterial compounds, manuka honey should be raw and unpasteurized. Heat-treated honey may lose some of its health benefits.

Avoid Added Sugars or Artificial Ingredients

Pure manuka honey should not contain additives. Check the ingredient list to make sure it’s 100% honey without unnecessary extras.

Best Manuka Brands to Consider

Many producers offer manuka honey, but only a handful stand out for their quality, transparency, and consistency. Here are some trusted brands often recognized as sources of the best manuka products:

1. Manuka Health

This New Zealand-based brand is one of the most widely recognized manuka honey producers. They offer honey in a range of MGO levels, and their MGO 100 manuka honey is ideal for first-time buyers. All their products are scientifically tested and certified.

2. Comvita

Established in 1974, Comvita is one of the oldest manuka honey brands in the world. Their honey is UMF-certified and available in various strengths. The brand is known for its traceability and rigorous quality control.

3. Wedderspoon

Although Wedderspoon uses a different grading system (KFactor), their raw and unpasteurized honey is a popular choice, particularly in North America. It’s a good alternative for those looking to try manuka honey with reliable quality.

4. Berringa

An Australian company that specializes in high-grade active honey, Berringa offers a variety of options including MGO-rated manuka. They are committed to sustainability and offer detailed testing results for their products.

5. Kiva

Kiva is a more affordable brand that still maintains quality standards. Their MGO-certified manuka honey is well-reviewed for both taste and performance, making it a great value-for-money option.

How to Use Manuka Honey Daily

Manuka honey is extremely versatile, making it easy to include in your daily wellness routine. Here are some common ways to enjoy MGO 100 manuka honey:

Straight from the Spoon

Perhaps the simplest and most effective method. One teaspoon a day, ideally on an empty stomach, can support general wellness.

In Beverages

Add to herbal tea or warm lemon water to ease sore throats or simply enhance hydration with a health boost. Be sure the water is not too hot, as high temperatures can destroy active compounds.

With Breakfast

Drizzle it over yogurt, oatmeal, or toast for a nutritious start to the day. It blends well with granola and fruit.

Topical Application

For minor cuts, abrasions, or dry skin patches, apply a small amount of honey to the area. While higher MGO levels are typically used for skin healing, MGO 100 can still offer gentle relief and hydration.

In Homemade Remedies

Manuka honey pairs well with natural ingredients like ginger, turmeric, and apple cider vinegar. Combine them for wellness shots or home tonics.

Storage and Shelf Life

Proper storage ensures that manuka honey maintains its health benefits and flavor over time. Keep the container tightly sealed and stored at room temperature, away from direct sunlight or moisture. Do not refrigerate, as this can cause crystallization.

Manuka honey typically has a long shelf life and does not spoil due to its natural antibacterial properties. However, always check the expiration date and store it in a clean, dry space.

Final Thoughts

Manuka honey has earned its reputation as one of the world’s most beneficial natural products, and MGO 100 manuka honey is an ideal way to introduce this wellness powerhouse into your life. Its mild yet effective strength makes it suitable for everyday use—whether as a dietary supplement, soothing remedy, or natural sweetener.

To get the most from your experience, choose from the best manuka honey brands that prioritize quality, transparency, and sustainability. By understanding how to read MGO labels, verifying certifications, and knowing how to use it properly, you’ll ensure that every spoonful brings genuine benefits.

Whether you’re adding it to tea, applying it to your skin, or simply enjoying its flavor, manuka honey is a time-honored gift from nature—one that can support your health in more ways than one.