Monosodium glutamate (MSG) is a flavor enhancer commonly added to foods and beverages. It is found naturally in some foods, but it is also added to many processed and restaurant foods. While MSG is generally considered safe, some people experience adverse reactions to it.
What is MSG?
MSG is a sodium salt of the amino acid glutamate. It is a flavor enhancer that has been used for many years to add a savory, umami flavor to food. It is found naturally in some foods, such as seaweed, tomatoes, mushrooms, and cheese, but it is also added to many processed and restaurant foods.
MSG is generally recognized as safe by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). However, some people experience adverse reactions to it, such as headaches, dizziness, and nausea. These reactions are known as the “MSG symptom complex” or “Chinese restaurant syndrome.”
Which Foods Contain MSG?
MSG is added to many processed foods, such as canned soups, potato chips, and frozen dinners. It is also used in many restaurant foods, such as Chinese food and some fast foods. Here is a list of common foods that contain MSG:
- Soy sauce
- Canned soups
- Frozen dinners
- Potato chips
- Seasoning mixes
- Salad dressings
- Gravies and sauces
- Canned vegetables
- Chinese food
- Fast food
MSG is also found in some natural foods, such as mushrooms, tomatoes, and cheese. It is also present in some fermented foods, such as miso, tempeh, and some fermented soy products.
How to Avoid MSG
If you want to avoid MSG, you should check the ingredients list of packaged foods for the terms “monosodium glutamate,” “hydrolyzed vegetable protein,” and “autolyzed yeast extract.” These ingredients all contain MSG.
You should also check the ingredients list for other ingredients that may contain MSG, such as yeast extract, malt extract, soy extract, and whey protein concentrate.
When eating out, you can ask the waiter or chef if the restaurant uses MSG in its dishes. Many restaurants now indicate on their menus if they use MSG.
Is MSG Bad for You?
MSG is generally recognized as safe by the FDA, but some people experience adverse reactions to it. These reactions are known as the “MSG symptom complex” or “Chinese restaurant syndrome.”
The symptoms of the MSG symptom complex can include headaches, flushing, sweating, facial pressure, chest pain, nausea, and weakness. These symptoms usually occur within an hour of consuming MSG and typically last for a few hours.
If you experience adverse reactions to MSG, you should avoid foods that contain it.
Bottom Line
MSG is a flavor enhancer that is added to many processed and restaurant foods. Some people experience adverse reactions to it, such as headaches, dizziness, and nausea. If you want to avoid MSG, check the ingredients list for the terms “monosodium glutamate,” “hydrolyzed vegetable protein,” and “autolyzed yeast extract.” You should also ask the waiter or chef if the restaurant uses MSG in its dishes.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1. What is MSG?
MSG is a sodium salt of the amino acid glutamate. It is a flavor enhancer that has been used for many years to add a savory, umami flavor to food.
Q2. Is MSG Bad for You?
MSG is generally recognized as safe by the FDA, but some people experience adverse reactions to it. These reactions are known as the “MSG symptom complex” or “Chinese restaurant syndrome.”
Q3. What Foods Contain MSG?
MSG is added to many processed foods, such as canned soups, potato chips, and frozen dinners. It is also used in many restaurant foods, such as Chinese food and some fast foods.
Q4. How to Avoid MSG?
If you want to avoid MSG, you should check the ingredients list of packaged foods for the terms “monosodium glutamate,” “hydrolyzed vegetable protein,” and “autolyzed yeast extract.” You should also check the ingredients list for other ingredients that may contain MSG, such as yeast extract, malt extract, soy extract, and whey protein concentrate.
Q5. Is MSG Natural?
MSG is found naturally in some foods, such as seaweed, tomatoes, mushrooms, and cheese, but it is also added to many processed and restaurant foods.
Q6. Does MSG Need to be Listed on Food Labels?
Yes, the FDA requires food manufacturers to list MSG on food labels.
Q7. What Does MSG Taste Like?
MSG has a savory, umami flavor that enhances the taste of food.
Q8. Is MSG Safe for Children?
The FDA considers MSG to be safe for all populations, including children.
Q9. What is the Difference Between MSG and Glutamate?
MSG is the sodium salt of the amino acid glutamate. Glutamate is the free form of the amino acid, while MSG is the sodium salt.
Q10. Does MSG Need to be Refrigerated?
No, MSG does not need to be refrigerated. It should be stored in a cool, dry place.
Q11. Is MSG Vegetarian?
Yes, MSG is suitable for vegetarians and vegans.
Q12. Is MSG Kosher?
Yes, MSG is suitable for kosher diets.
Q13. Does MSG Cause Weight Gain?
No, there is no evidence that MSG causes weight gain.
Q14. Does MSG Contain Gluten?
No, MSG does not contain gluten.
Q15. Does MSG Expire?
No, MSG does not expire. It can be stored for long periods of time.
Q16. Is MSG Bad for Your Heart?
No, there is no evidence that MSG is bad for your heart.
Q17. Is MSG an Allergen?
No, MSG is not an allergen. However, some people experience adverse reactions to it.
Q18. Does MSG Cause Headaches?
Yes, some people experience headaches after consuming MSG. These reactions are known as the “MSG symptom complex” or “Chinese restaurant syndrome.”
Q19. Is MSG Bad for Your Liver?
No, there is no evidence that MSG is bad for your liver.
Q20. Is MSG Vegan?
Yes, MSG is suitable for vegans.