Ingredient · Updated
Disodium Guanylate
Found in 8 products
Rice A Roni Rice Pilaf 7.2 Ounce Paper Box 
chef's cupboard RAMEN BEEF FLAVORED 
Stove Top Turkey Stuffing Mix Side Dish Twin Pack Pack Boxes 
Takis Rolled Blue Heat Tortilla Chips 
Utz BAKED CHEDDAR CHEESE BALLS 
Samyang Buldak Original Potato Chips 
Lay's Stax Sour Cream & Onion Potato Chips 
Doritos Flamas Tortilla Chips What is Disodium Guanylate?
Disodium guanylate is a flavor enhancer derived from nucleotide salts. It is often produced from seaweed or fish extracts and is chemically synthesized in laboratories.
This ingredient is used to enhance the savory, umami taste in foods, particularly in combination with monosodium glutamate (MSG). The evidence on health implications is limited; however, concerns arise mainly for individuals with sensitivities to purine-rich compounds, like those who suffer from gout.
When you see disodium guanylate on a label, it indicates the product is likely to contain MSG or other similar flavor enhancers.
Commonly found in: processed meats, snack foods, instant ramen, soups, sauces
What to watch
- May cause issues in individuals with gout or uric acid metabolism disorders.
Disodium guanylate is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA when used in accordance with good manufacturing practices.
While generally considered safe, some research suggests caution for those with specific medical conditions like gout.
While it can be derived from plant sources, some versions are fish-derived, affecting vegan status.
Sources: Code of Federal Regulations Title 21
Scout's take
Disodium guanylate is a flavor enhancer used to boost umami taste. It is often used with MSG and can cause reactions in sensitive individuals. It is a common additive in processed foods.
The case against
May cause reactions in individuals sensitive to MSG or purines.
from the analysis of chef's cupboard RAMEN BEEF FLAVORED · echoed in 3 other analysesMay cause adverse reactions in sensitive individuals, especially when combined with MSG.
from the analysis of Doritos Flamas Tortilla ChipsMay cause sensitivity reactions, especially when combined with MSG.
from the analysis of Stove Top Turkey Stuffing Mix Side Dish Twin Pack Pack BoxesMay cause allergic reactions or sensitivities in some individuals.
from the analysis of Samyang Buldak Original Potato ChipsThe case for
Enhances umami flavors in foods.
from the analysis of Lay's Stax Sour Cream & Onion Potato Chips · echoed in 1 other analysisEnhances umami flavor but has no significant nutritional benefits.
from the analysis of Doritos Flamas Tortilla ChipsEnhances flavor without adding significant calories.
from the analysis of chef's cupboard RAMEN BEEF FLAVOREDMore from Scout's analyses
Disodium guanylate is a flavor enhancer used to intensify savory flavors. It is often used with MSG and can cause adverse reactions in sensitive individuals. It is a processed ingredient with no nutritional benefits.
from the analysis of Takis Rolled Blue Heat Tortilla ChipsDisodium guanylate is a flavor enhancer often used with MSG to enhance umami flavor. It is derived from nucleotides and can cause adverse reactions in sensitive individuals. It is commonly used in processed foods.
from the analysis of Doritos Flamas Tortilla ChipsDisodium guanylate is another flavor enhancer used with MSG. It is a processed additive that enhances umami taste. It is generally recognized as safe but may cause reactions in sensitive individuals.
from the analysis of chef's cupboard RAMEN BEEF FLAVOREDAll 8 products with Disodium Guanylate
Where Disodium Guanylate shows up
- Salty Snacks 5 products
- Rice & Pasta 2 products
- Prepared 1 product
Higher-scoring picks without Disodium Guanylate
Products from the same categories whose analyzed ingredient list does not include Disodium Guanylate, scoring 80 or above.
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