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What Are the Benefits of Monosodium Glutamate?

Monosodium glutamate, also known as MSG, is a commonly used food additive that enhances flavor in a wide variety of foods. It is "Generally Recognized as Safe" (GRAS), but its use is limited by standards set by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. MSG must be listed on food labels according to FDA rules, although there are many hidden sources that food manufacturers are not required to disclose.

  1. Natural Sources

    • Oysters contain high levels of naturally occurring glutamates.

      MSG is chemically known as the sodium salt of glutamic acid. Glutamates are naturally occurring in many foods, including meats, seafood (particularly oysters), dairy products, such as Parmesan cheese, and vegetable, sources such as tomatoes, mushrooms and kombu (sea kelp).

    Manufactured Sources

    • MSG or glutamates can be manufactured via an industrial fermentation process that produces a powder or liquid food additive. Many food additives, such as hydrolyzed vegetable protein, autolyzed yeast, maltodextrin and sodium caseinate, contain hidden compounds of MSG.

    The Fifth Taste

    • Glutamates in foods and additives provide a savory flavor know in Asian cooking as "umami," or the "fifth taste." This taste is subtle yet brings out the richness and depth of the food it flavors. Kombu, clam juice, oysters, mushrooms, seasoned salt, soy sauce, dressings and dashi (Japanese cooking stock) all add a savory flavor enhancement to the foods to which they are added.

    Misconceptions

    • Chinese restaurant syndrome, also known as MSG Complex illness, can include symptoms such as burning sensations in the neck, chest tightness and difficulty breathing, nausea and sweating after consuming Asian-style foods. However, according to a study in the November 2000 issue of "The Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology," Raif S. Geha, M.D., says the data has failed to confirm that MSG is the cause. It is likely that sufferers of the syndrome are experiencing allergic-type reactions to other ingredients, such as shrimp, shellfish, peanuts, spices or herbs.

    The Bottom Line

    • MSG is one of the most extensively studied food substances in history. Numerous tests and scientific evaluations have concluded that it provides a safe and useful taste enhancer to foods. As with all things, the consumer is encouraged to practice moderate consumption of processed foods containing additives.

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