MGO 800+ and higher Manuka honey sits firmly in the premium tier — and for many buyers, that’s exactly where the real value begins.
These jars are richer, darker, and more concentrated than lower ratings like MGO 50+, MGO 100+, MGO 250+ or MGO 400+. They’re often chosen by people who want a noticeably stronger, more potent Manuka honey experience.
Yes, they come at a higher price point — but that’s because they represent some of the most sought-after, high-strength Manuka honey available today.
For buyers who want quality, intensity, and a premium feel, MGO 800+ and above is often where the upgrade truly becomes noticeable.
The key takeaway: MGO 800+ and higher is where Manuka honey starts to feel like a premium investment — and for many, it’s absolutely worth it.
Looking at MGO 800+, MGO 850+ or MGO 1000+ Manuka honey? 🔎
MGO stands for methylglyoxal, one of the naturally occurring compounds that gives Manuka honey its unique strength.
The higher the number, the more concentrated the honey:
- MGO 800+ = very high strength
- MGO 850+ or 900+ = even stronger within the same tier
- MGO 1000+ = ultra-strength
On Manuka Honey Finder’s strength guide:
- MGO 500–699 = High Strength
- MGO 700–999 = Extra Strength
- MGO 1000+ = Ultra Strength
This means MGO 800+, 850+, and 900+ sit in the Extra Strength sweet spot — a popular choice for buyers who want premium quality without jumping straight to the highest price tier.
MGO 1000+ and above sits at the top end of the market, often chosen by buyers who want the strongest available option.
If you’re browsing premium jars on Amazon or directly from trusted manufacturers, these are the ratings you’ll most often see highlighted — and for good reason.
Why high MGO is not the same as UMF certification 🏷️
MGO and UMF are closely related, but they measure slightly different things.
MGO focuses on one key compound, while UMF is a broader grading system that includes multiple markers such as leptosperin, DHA and HMF.
That means:
- An MGO 800+ jar is not automatically UMF certified
- An MGO 1000+ jar is not automatically UMF certified
However, many premium brands combine both — and when they do, it often signals a high-quality, well-tested product worth considering.
New Zealand’s Ministry for Primary Industries also requires strict testing to confirm authenticity for exported mānuka honey — you can read more [here].
In practical terms, most buyers don’t need to overthink this. If you’re choosing a well-reviewed, clearly labelled MGO 800+ or higher jar from a trusted brand, you’re already in a strong position.
MGO 800+ and higher Manuka honey ratings compared 📊
| Label detail | What it usually means | Strength range on this site | What buyers should remember |
|---|---|---|---|
| MGO 800+ | Very high methylglyoxal rating | Extra Strength | Premium-level strength with strong value for money |
| MGO 850+ | Very high methylglyoxal rating | Extra Strength | Often featured in top-selling premium jars |
| MGO 900+ | Very high methylglyoxal rating | Extra Strength | Great step up before ultra-tier pricing |
| MGO 1000+ | Ultra-high methylglyoxal rating | Ultra Strength | Top-tier strength for buyers wanting the best available |
| MGO 1200+ or higher | Very rare ultra-strength positioning | Ultra Strength | Exclusive, high-end niche products |
| UMF rating | Separate New Zealand mānuka honey quality/rating system | Separate system | Adds extra reassurance when included |
| Batch testing | Testing connected to a specific batch | Label confidence detail | Helps confirm authenticity and consistency |
| Product type | Food honey, lozenge, skincare or medical-grade product | Separate check | Most jars are food-grade unless clearly stated otherwise |
What to check before paying for MGO 800+ or higher ✅
When you’re investing in a premium jar, you want to feel confident you’re getting real value — not just a high number on the label.
Here’s what smart buyers look for:
- Clear MGO rating (800+, 850+, 1000+)
- Batch testing or lab verification
- Traceability or batch lookup tools
- New Zealand origin (most trusted source)
- Monofloral vs multifloral clarity
- UMF certification (optional but valuable)
- Raw or unpasteurised status
- Organic certification (if important to you)
- Jar size and price per gram
- Brand reputation and customer reviews
If you’re buying through Amazon or directly from a manufacturer, these details are usually listed — and they make it much easier to choose a jar you’ll be happy with.
One important safety note: honey should not be given to babies under 12 months. The CDC explains the risk of infant botulism — you can read more [here].
Five MGO 800+ and higher situations where buyers get confused 📌
You assume MGO 1000+ is always better than MGO 800+ 💰
MGO 1000+ is stronger — but MGO 800+ often delivers excellent strength at a more accessible price.
For many buyers, MGO 800+ or 850+ is the ideal balance of performance and value.
You assume high MGO means UMF certified 🏷️
High MGO is impressive, but it doesn’t automatically mean UMF certification.
That said, many premium jars include both — and those are often worth prioritising.
You assume MGO 800+ means monofloral 🌿
MGO measures strength, not floral purity.
If monofloral matters to you, check the label — many premium jars clearly state this.
You ignore taste and usability 🥄
High-MGO Manuka honey has a bold, rich, slightly earthy flavour.
Most buyers who upgrade to this level actually enjoy the intensity — especially when taken by the spoon or added to warm drinks.
You treat high-MGO food honey like medical-grade honey ⚠️
Even premium jars are still food-grade products unless clearly labelled otherwise.
They’re designed for everyday use — not as medical treatments.
FAQs about MGO 800+ and higher Manuka honey ❓
What does MGO 800+ mean in Manuka honey?
It means the honey contains a high level of methylglyoxal, placing it in the Extra Strength category.
Is MGO 1000+ better than MGO 800+?
It’s stronger, but not always necessary. Many buyers prefer MGO 800+ for its balance of strength and price.
Is MGO 800+ the same as UMF 20+?
No. They are different systems. UMF measures multiple factors, while MGO focuses on one.
Does MGO 1000+ mean medical-grade honey?
No. It is still food-grade unless specifically labelled as medical-grade.
Can babies have MGO 800+ or MGO 1000+ Manuka honey?
No. Babies under 12 months should not consume any honey.
Final thoughts: high MGO is premium — and often worth it ✅
MGO 800+ and higher Manuka honey represents the premium experience most buyers are actually looking for.
These jars are popular because they offer:
- Stronger, more noticeable potency
- Richer, deeper flavour
- Premium positioning and packaging
- A more concentrated Manuka honey experience
MGO 800+, 850+, and 900+ are excellent high-strength choices — while MGO 1000+ and above sits at the very top for those who want the best available.
If you’re browsing options online, especially on Amazon or trusted brand websites, these ratings are often where the best-selling premium jars sit.
If you’re ready to upgrade your Manuka honey, MGO 800+ and higher is one of the smartest places to start.
Related posts if you’re comparing higher MGO ratings 📚
Compare MGO 800+ and higher Manuka honey carefully 🔢
Use the main table to compare food-grade Manuka honey products by MGO, UMF, country, monofloral status, raw status, organic status, UMF certification, MGO testing, batch testing, traceability and brand details.