Monosodium Glutamate
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What it is
Monosodium glutamate, or MSG, is the sodium salt of glutamic acid. Glutamic acid is a common amino acid found naturally in many foods like tomatoes, cheese, and mushrooms. Manufactured MSG is typically made by fermenting starches such as corn, sugar beets, or sugar cane.
Why it's used
MSG is used as a flavor enhancer to give foods a savory, "umami" taste. It is commonly added to snack foods, soups, sauces, seasonings, and processed meats to improve their flavor.
Health notes
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) considers MSG to be Generally Recognized As Safe (GRAS). Some people report experiencing short-term reactions like headaches, sweating, or numbness after consuming MSG, but the FDA states these reactions are generally mild and temporary. International bodies like the Joint FAO/WHO Expert Committee on Food Additives (JECFA) have evaluated MSG and concluded that a specific acceptable daily intake (ADI) is not needed. The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) has also reviewed MSG. Despite past controversies regarding "MSG symptom complex," scientific evidence has not established a link between MSG and serious or long-term health problems.
Allergen info
Not a major allergen.