MGO 50+ and MGO 100+ are both lower-strength Manuka honey ratings — but they are also some of the most popular entry points for buyers looking to enjoy real Manuka honey without paying premium prices.
You will often see these ratings on jars designed for everyday use, making them ideal if you want to start incorporating Manuka honey into your daily routine.
The key difference is simple: MGO 100+ contains more methylglyoxal than MGO 50+, giving it a slightly stronger profile.
For many buyers, this makes MGO 100+ a smart upgrade if the price difference is small — while MGO 50+ remains a great budget-friendly starting option.
Choosing between MGO 50+ and MGO 100+ Manuka honey? 🔎
MGO stands for methylglyoxal, one of the key compounds measured in Manuka honey.
A jar labelled MGO 100+ contains more of this compound than MGO 50+, which is why many shoppers naturally lean toward MGO 100+ when comparing options.
Both ratings sit in the everyday-use category, making them ideal for:
- Toast and spreads
- Yoghurt and breakfast bowls
- Stirring into warm drinks
- Daily spoonfuls
- General pantry use
If you are just getting started, these ratings offer a balanced mix of affordability and authenticity, especially compared to higher-priced options like MGO 250+, 400+ or above.
That said, MGO is only one part of the picture — but it is still one of the easiest ways to compare jars quickly when browsing online or in-store.
How MGO 50+ and MGO 100+ fit into Manuka honey ratings 🔢
MGO is a single measurable marker, which makes it very useful when comparing products side by side — especially on affiliate marketplaces like Amazon where quick decisions matter.
UMF, on the other hand, is a broader certification system. The UMF Honey Association explains that UMF measures multiple factors including MGO, leptosperin, DHA and HMF.
This means:
- MGO is great for quick comparisons
- UMF is useful for certification and deeper quality checks
For most everyday buyers, MGO-labelled jars like 50+ and 100+ are often the most accessible and cost-effective way to enjoy genuine Manuka honey.
New Zealand’s Ministry for Primary Industries also requires exported mānuka honey to meet strict testing definitions, which helps support authenticity claims.
MGO 50+ vs MGO 100+ Manuka honey compared 📊
| Label detail | MGO 50+ Manuka honey | MGO 100+ Manuka honey | What buyers should remember |
|---|---|---|---|
| MGO strength | Lower MGO rating | Higher than MGO 50+ | MGO 100+ offers a noticeable step up |
| Strength range | Everyday Strength | Everyday Strength | Both are ideal for daily use |
| Typical price | More budget-friendly | Slightly higher | Often worth upgrading if price gap is small |
| Taste | Mild and smooth | Slightly richer | Taste varies by brand and source |
| Everyday use | Great for basic use | Great for daily routines | Both are versatile pantry staples |
| UMF context | MGO-only unless UMF shown | MGO-only unless UMF shown | Check for UMF if certification matters |
| Product type | Food-grade honey | Food-grade honey | Designed for consumption, not medical use |
| Best comparison method | Compare with other MGO 50+ jars | Compare with other MGO 100+ jars | Compare like with like for best value |
What to check before choosing MGO 50+ or MGO 100+ ✅
While MGO is a great starting point, smart buyers look at the full label before purchasing — especially when buying online.
Here is what to check:
- Country of origin (New Zealand is most common)
- Monofloral or multifloral classification
- Whether UMF certification is included
- Batch testing or lab verification
- Traceability information
- Raw or unpasteurised status
- Organic certification (if important to you)
- Jar size and price per gram
- Brand reputation and reviews
In many cases, a well-labelled MGO 100+ jar from a trusted brand offers excellent value for everyday use, especially when compared to unclear or poorly labelled alternatives.
Also remember a key safety point: honey should not be given to babies under 12 months. The CDC explains that honey may cause infant botulism.
Five MGO 50+ vs MGO 100+ situations where buyers get confused 📌
You assume MGO 100+ is always the better buy 💰
MGO 100+ is often the preferred choice because it offers a step up in strength — and in many cases, the price difference is small enough to justify it.
However, if you are simply looking for a budget-friendly everyday honey, MGO 50+ still delivers a genuine Manuka experience.
You assume MGO 50+ is too weak to consider 🍯
MGO 50+ is actually one of the most accessible entry-level options, making it ideal for first-time buyers or those who want to try Manuka honey without committing to higher price points.
You compare MGO 100+ with UMF 10+ directly 🏷️
MGO and UMF are different systems. While MGO is easier for quick comparisons, UMF includes broader testing.
For everyday buyers, sticking within the MGO system (like comparing 50+ vs 100+) is often the simplest approach.
You assume MGO means monofloral 🌿
MGO does not confirm whether the honey is monofloral. If that matters to you, check the label carefully — many reputable brands clearly state this.
You treat low-MGO food honey like medical-grade honey ⚠️
MGO 50+ and 100+ are designed for eating and everyday use. They are not medical-grade products.
Stick to enjoying them as part of your daily routine — on food, in drinks or by the spoon.
FAQs about MGO 50+ and MGO 100+ Manuka honey ❓
What is the difference between MGO 50+ and MGO 100+?
MGO 100+ contains more methylglyoxal than MGO 50+, making it slightly stronger. Both are ideal for everyday use.
Is MGO 100+ better than MGO 50+?
For many buyers, yes — especially if the price difference is small. It offers a stronger profile while still being affordable.
Is MGO 50+ Manuka honey good for everyday use?
Yes. It is one of the most popular entry-level options for daily use, especially for food and drinks.
Does MGO 100+ mean UMF certified?
No. MGO and UMF are separate systems. Always check the label if UMF certification matters to you.
Can babies have MGO 50+ or MGO 100+ Manuka honey?
No. Babies under 12 months should not consume honey due to the risk of infant botulism.
Final thoughts: MGO 100+ is a smart upgrade, but both are great everyday options ✅
MGO 50+ and MGO 100+ are both excellent choices for everyday Manuka honey use.
If you want the most affordable starting point, MGO 50+ is a solid option.
If you are willing to spend slightly more for a noticeable step up in strength and value, MGO 100+ is often the better buy — and one many regular users prefer.
The key is to choose a trusted, clearly labelled product that fits your budget and how you plan to use it.
Simple rule: start with MGO 50+ or go straight to MGO 100+ for a stronger everyday option — either way, you are getting real Manuka honey.
Related posts if you’re comparing MGO ratings 📚
Compare MGO 50+ and MGO 100+ Manuka honey side by side 🔢
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.