MSG is a popular food seasoning that developed a bad reputation years ago. While still wildly popular, there are some who still try to avoid the additive. Do they have a point? Is MSG bad for you? In short, no. It is not bad for you. Please keep reading to learn what MSG is and how safe it is to consume.
What Is MSG?
MSG stands for monosodium glutamate. It is a food additive that comes from glutamic acid, which is an amino acid that occurs naturally in many foods. While the additive is slightly different than naturally occurring glutamic acid, the body metabolizes both in the same way.
What is the purpose of adding MSG to food? It is used to add an “umami” flavor to dishes. Umami is considered the fifth taste and is generally described as a savory, meaty taste. MSG can add this taste without adding any meat to the finished product. This makes it safe to add to vegan dishes.
If you’ve ever felt like your dish was missing something, that umami kick may be it. It’s often that flavor that makes Chinese takeout so irresistible. Monosodium glutamate can even take meat dishes to the next level. Try adding some to your next fried chicken flour mix and prepare to be amazed.
MSG can be found in most grocery stores. One of the more common brands you may have already come across is Accent.
Is MSG Healthy?
Now that we have covered the reasons for using MSG, let’s talk about the health implications of the additive. The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has designated monosodium glutamate as “generally recognized as safe” or GRAS. Consumed in moderate quantities, one should have no problems with it.
However, if consumed in large doses, some may experience adverse effects. These include headache, drowsiness, and numbness. The symptoms only occur when consuming more than 3 grams of MSG. It should be noted that most products contain less than 0.5 grams of the substance.
Be careful believing anecdotal stories from people who claim to have a monosodium glutamate sensitivity. Studies have been unable to detect reactions in people who claim to be acutely sensitive to it.
On the contrary, monosodium glutamate can be part of a healthy diet. It is particularly helpful in adding flavor without the need for adding too much sodium. While it does contain sodium, it has less than common table salt, approximately one-third as much.
In conclusion, MSG is not “bad” for you. It is safe in moderation. If you are looking to add a cheap umami kick to your dishes, don’t hesitate to hit them with this useful seasoning.
