Ammonium glutamate

What is Ammonium glutamate?

A food additive used as a flavor enhancer. It is the ammonium salt of glutamic acid. For industrial use, it is obtained through bacterial fermentation of molasses. Ammonium glutamate is used to enhance the natural flavor and taste of food. Glutamates provide the 'umami' taste, recognized as the fifth basic taste, alongside sweet, sour, salty, and bitter. It can be added to any food, including alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages, up to 1%, reducing the amount of salt needed. A proportion greater than 1% cannot enhance the taste further but may distort it. Some studies have highlighted a potential neurotoxic effect of glutamates on both children and adults, while other studies have not. However, the neurotoxic potential is real because glutamate (like aspartate in Aspartame) is a neurotransmitter, and the blood-brain barrier, which protects the brain from toxins and excess neurotransmitters, is not fully developed in children, and in adults, it may not protect all areas of the brain or may be damaged. As a result, glutamate turns into what is called an excitotoxin, which excessively stimulates neurons, ultimately destroying them.

Why is Ammonium glutamate added to food?

Ammonium glutamate (E624) is a flavor enhancer commonly found in: Various foods, alcoholic beverages.

Permitted quantity: No daily dose limit.

Is Ammonium glutamate safe?

Generally, no side effects occur, and the additive is considered safe by the Joint Expert Committee of the World Health Organization and the Food and Agriculture Organization. However, some individuals may report symptoms such as numbness, weakness, tremors, dizziness, headaches, and palpitations ("Chinese restaurant syndrome"), or even respiratory problems, panic attacks, sudden mood changes, hyperactivity, nausea, etc.

Is Ammonium glutamate banned anywhere?

Is Ammonium glutamate okay for kids?

Not allowed in foods intended for infants and young children.

Common foods that contain Ammonium glutamate

• Various foods
• alcoholic beverages

See the full list of foods that contain Ammonium glutamate →

How to spot Ammonium glutamate on labels

Look for any of these names in the ingredients list:

• E624
• Ammonium glutamate

Better alternatives

• People sensitive to glutamates may experience adverse reactions such as headaches, dizziness, or nausea. • Avoid consumption in case of allergies or sensitivities to additives in the glutamate family. • Not recommended for people with liver or kidney conditions, as it may affect their metabolism. • Excessive use is not recommended in the diet of young children or elderly individuals due to potential adverse effects.

Explore homemade alternatives to processed snacks →

Also known as

• ammonium glutdmate
• ammonium qlutamate
• ammonium glutamate
• ammonium glutamdte
• ammonlum glutamate
• dmmonium glutamate

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