Ingredient · Updated
Monosodium Glutamate
Found in 15 productsSee all
Rice A Roni Rice Pilaf 7.2 Ounce Paper Box 
Sapporo Ichiban JAPANESE STYLE NOODLES & ORIGINAL FLAVORED-SOUP 
Ruffles Cheddar & Sour Cream 
Dot's pretzels Dot's Homestyle Pretzels Original Twists 
Old El Paso Stand 'N Stuff Bold Nacho Cheese Flavored Taco Shells 
Sunshine Cheez-It Crackers Snack Mix Original 
Herr's Cheddar & Sour Cream Ridged Potato Chips 
Takis Rolled Blue Heat Tortilla Chips What is Monosodium Glutamate?
Monosodium Glutamate, commonly known as MSG, is the sodium salt of glutamic acid, an amino acid found naturally in many foods. It is usually made by fermenting starches or sugars like sugar beet, cane, or molasses.
MSG is widely used as a flavor enhancer that brings a savory taste known as umami, commonly found in various processed foods, soups, and snack items. The chemical structure of MSG is the same whether it's in processed foods or naturally present in foods like tomatoes and cheese. Scientific evidence on MSG's health impact varies, with some studies linking it to symptoms like headaches in high doses, though it's generally recognized as safe for most people.
When you see MSG on a label, it's usually added to intensify flavors. For those sensitive to MSG, consuming it in large amounts can lead to mild symptoms like headaches or flushing, though such reactions are rare.
Commonly found in: snack foods, soups, seasonings, instant noodles, frozen meals, processed meats
What to watch
- Some people report mild symptoms such as headaches or flushing after consuming large amounts of MSG.
Benefits
- Enhances savory flavors, which can improve the palatability of foods.
MSG is classified as Generally Recognized As Safe (GRAS) by the FDA and does not require specific labeling beyond being listed as an ingredient.
Research shows MSG can cause symptoms like headaches in sensitive individuals, but no conclusive evidence supports widespread adverse effects.
MSG is vegan as it is derived from plant sources through fermentation and does not contain animal-derived ingredients.
Sources: Questions and Answers on Monosodium glutamate (MSG)
Scout's take
Monosodium glutamate (MSG) is a flavor enhancer that can cause adverse reactions in some individuals. It is often used in processed foods to enhance savory flavors. Some people report sensitivity to MSG, experiencing headaches or other symptoms.
The case against
May cause headaches, nausea, and other symptoms in sensitive individuals.
from the analysis of Herr's Cheddar & Sour Cream Ridged Potato Chips · echoed in 8 other analysesMay cause headaches or allergic reactions in sensitive individuals.
from the analysis of Samyang Buldak Original Potato ChipsThe case for
Enhances umami flavor in foods but has no nutritional benefits.
from the analysis of Doritos Flamas Tortilla Chips · echoed in 2 other analysesEnhances the savory flavor of foods.
from the analysis of Frito Lay Cheetos XXTRA Flamin' Hot Crunchy Cheese Flavored Snacks · echoed in 2 other analysesEnhances the savory flavor of foods, making them more palatable.
from the analysis of Corporacion Cressida YUMMIES, ZAMBOS, PLANTAIN CHIPSEnhances savory flavors but provides no nutritional benefits.
from the analysis of Takis Rolled Blue Heat Tortilla ChipsMore from Scout's analyses
Monosodium glutamate (MSG) is a flavor enhancer that can cause adverse reactions in sensitive individuals. It is a processed additive that may lead to symptoms like headaches or nausea in some people. Despite its widespread use, it remains controversial due to potential health concerns.
from the analysis of Frito-Lay Sunchips Mix Variety PackMonosodium glutamate (MSG) is used to enhance flavor but is controversial due to potential sensitivity in some individuals. It is a processed additive that can cause headaches or other symptoms in sensitive people. While generally recognized as safe, its use is debated.
from the analysis of Old El Paso Stand 'N Stuff Bold Nacho Cheese Flavored Taco ShellsMonosodium glutamate (MSG) is a flavor enhancer that can cause adverse reactions in sensitive individuals. It is often used in processed foods to enhance savory flavors. While generally recognized as safe, it is controversial due to potential sensitivity issues.
from the analysis of Lay's Stax Sour Cream & Onion Potato ChipsAll 15 products with Monosodium Glutamate
Where Monosodium Glutamate shows up
- Salty Snacks 11 products
- Rice & Pasta 2 products
- Tortillas & Wraps 1 product
- Crackers 1 product
Higher-scoring picks without Monosodium Glutamate
Products from the same categories whose analyzed ingredient list does not include Monosodium Glutamate, scoring 80 or above.
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