Monosodium glutamate, commonly known as MSG, is also referred to as Ajinomoto, monosodium glutamate (MSG), sodium glutamate, and alpha-amino-glutaric acid sodium salt, among other names.
Commom Food
Additives: MSG, chicken essence/chicken powder, oyster sauce, soy sauce, soup base, instant noodle seasoning packets, pre-made broth, seafood sauce, fish sauce, hot pot base, soybean paste, barbecue sauce, etc.
Natural sources of monosodium glutamate: meats (beef, pork, chicken, etc.), seafood, beans, mushrooms, dairy products, vegetables, nuts, etc. The content is usually not as high as in processed foods with added MSG.
Functions
Enhancing Flavor: Monosodium glutamate can stimulate specific taste receptors on the tongue, particularly amino acid receptors, which results in a sensation of umami, one of the five basic tastes.
Promoting Appetite: Due to its flavor-enhancing properties, monosodium glutamate can increase a person's appetite and help improve the digestibility of food.
Reducing Salt Intake: As monosodium glutamate enhances the flavor of food, it allows for a reduction in the amount of salt used, while still maintaining or improving the taste of the food.
Medical Uses: Monosodium glutamate also has medical applications, such as playing a role in the treatment of chronic diseases.
Usage Limits
European Union (EU): The maximum allowable intake of glutamate and its salts (including monosodium glutamate) for consumers is 30 milligrams per kilogram of body weight per day.
United States (USA): MSG is permitted as a food additive with no specific limits, but it must be produced and used according to Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP).
China: According to the national standard (GB 2720-2015), the content of monosodium glutamate in MSG must be ≥99%, and there is no specific limit on its usage in food processing, though other relevant regulations on food additives must be followed.
Although reports suggest that long-term excessive intake may be associated with symptoms such as mood disturbances and insomnia, as long as the intake is limited, the use of monosodium glutamate (MSG) remains safe.
