Monosodium Glutamte

Monosodium glutamate, or MSG, is the sodium salt of glutamic acid, a common amino acid. Glutamic acid is found naturally in many foods like tomatoes, mushrooms, and cheeses. MSG is typically made through a fermentation process using starches from plants such as corn, sugar beets, or sugarcane.

MSG is added to foods as a flavor enhancer, giving them a savory taste known as umami. It is often used in processed foods like snacks, soups, sauces, and prepared meats to improve their overall flavor profile.

In the United States, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) considers MSG to be "Generally Recognized As Safe" (GRAS). Some people report mild, temporary reactions to MSG, such as headaches or flushing, a collection of symptoms sometimes called "MSG symptom complex." However, the FDA states that scientific studies have not consistently shown a link between MSG and these symptoms in the general population when consumed at typical levels. Both the Joint FAO/WHO Expert Committee on Food Additives (JECFA) and the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) have evaluated MSG. JECFA concluded that an acceptable daily intake (ADI) does not need to be specified, meaning it is considered safe at levels normally consumed.