Glutamic acid
Learn what Glutamic acid (E620) is, why it's added to food, whether it's safe, and which products contain it.
Low concernWhat is Glutamic acid?
A food additive used as a flavor enhancer. It is a natural acid present in all proteins. For industrial use, it is derived from plant materials. Glutamic acid is an amino acid produced by the human body, which does not require external sources. It is used by the brain as a neurotransmitter and by the intestines as an energy source. Some studies have highlighted a potential neurotoxic effect of glutamates on children and even 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, irreversibly destroying them.
Why is Glutamic acid added to food?
Glutamic acid (E620) is a flavor enhancer commonly found in: Food products, alcoholic beverages, and soft drinks.
Permitted quantity: No daily dose limit.
Is Glutamic acid safe?
Low concern
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 Glutamic acid banned anywhere?
✓ Not currently banned in the EU or known to be restricted in other countries.
Is Glutamic acid okay for kids?
Not allowed in foods intended for infants and young children.
Common foods that contain Glutamic acid
- Food products
- alcoholic beverages
- and soft drinks
How to spot Glutamic acid on labels
Look for any of these names in the ingredients list:
- E620
- Glutamic acid
Common misspellings to watch for:
- glutamic dcid
- glutamlc acid
- glutamie acid
- glutamic acid
- glutamic acld
- glutamic aeid
- qlutamic acid
- glutdmic acid
Better alternatives
• People sensitive to glutamates or with food allergies should avoid products containing glutamic acid. • Excessive consumption may lead to headaches, dizziness, excessive sweating, or nausea in sensitive individuals. • Not recommended for people with severe kidney conditions, as it may affect glutamate metabolism. • Avoid consumption in the diet of young children or elderly people due to possible risks of adverse effects.
Also known as
- glutamic dcid
- glutamlc acid
- glutamie acid
- glutamic acid
- glutamic acld
- glutamic aeid
- qlutamic acid
- glutdmic acid
Scan products with BioBrief
Not sure if a product contains Glutamic acid? BioBrief scans the barcode and instantly shows you every additive in the ingredients list — including E620 — with a plain-language explanation.
Frequently asked questions about Glutamic acid
- Is Glutamic acid safe to eat?
- 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 Glutamic acid banned anywhere?
- Glutamic acid is not currently banned in the EU or known to be restricted in other countries.
- Is Glutamic acid safe for children?
- Not allowed in foods intended for infants and young children.
- How do I spot Glutamic acid on a food label?
- Look for E620, Glutamic acid in the ingredients list. It may also appear as: glutamic dcid, glutamlc acid, glutamie acid.
Ingredients change. Always check the actual product label before purchasing. Information on this page is for educational purposes only.