Monosodium glutamate

chemical compound, flavor enhancer

Monosodium glutamate (MSG), also known as sodium glutamate, is the sodium salt of glutamic acid. It is a chemical used to make foods taste better. This works because savory flavors are enhanced. That means the savory flavors are stronger. MSG is found in most foods. It is in higher concentrations in high protein foods such as meat, fish and dairy products.[1] It has the E number of 621. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has classed MSG as a food additive that is "generally recognized as safe". However, the FDA requires that it be listed on the label.[2] It is banned in the UK after a thorough examination of the contents, and the context of what it's being used in.

References change

  1. "The Facts on Monosodium Glutamate". European Food Information Council. November 2002. Archived from the original on 5 May 2010. Retrieved 2 December 2014.
  2. Katherine Zeratsky. "What is MSG? Is it bad for you?". Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research. Retrieved 2 December 2014.