Authority source
Safety basis: FDA
FDA
Monosodium Glutamate
MSGGlutamate Monosodium Salt
Flavor Enhancer
Monosodium glutamate is a flavor enhancer that makes food taste more savory. It's a naturally occurring amino acid found in many foods, but it's often added to foods in a concentrated form.
What it is
Monosodium glutamate is a white crystalline powder derived from the amino acid glutamic acid.
Found in
soups, sauces, processed meats, canned vegetables, instant noodles
The concern
Some people may experience adverse reactions, such as headaches or nausea, after consuming MSG, but these reactions are rare and usually mild.
Legal status
Generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA, but some countries have restrictions on its use.
Low Concern
Generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA for use as a flavor enhancer.
Evidence & sources
Article / explainer
Article / explainer
No highly relevant article explainer found yet.
Community questions
Community questions
Community discussions are not used as safety evidence and no highly relevant discussion is shown for this ingredient.
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Last updated: June 6, 2026