Monopotassium glutamate

What is Monopotassium glutamate?

A food additive used as a flavor enhancer. It is the potassium salt of glutamic acid. For industrial use, it is obtained through bacterial fermentation of molasses. Monopotassium glutamate is used to enhance the natural flavor and taste of food. Glutamates provide the 'umami' taste, considered 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 Monopotassium glutamate added to food?

Monopotassium glutamate (E622) is a flavor enhancer commonly found in: Food products, alcoholic beverages, and soft drinks.

Permitted quantity: No daily dose limit.

Is Monopotassium 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 Monopotassium glutamate banned anywhere?

Is Monopotassium glutamate okay for kids?

Not allowed in foods intended for infants and young children.

Common foods that contain Monopotassium glutamate

• Food products
• alcoholic beverages
• and soft drinks

See the full list of foods that contain Monopotassium glutamate →

How to spot Monopotassium glutamate on labels

Look for any of these names in the ingredients list:

• E622
• Monopotassium glutamate

Better alternatives

• People sensitive to glutamates or with food allergies should avoid products containing monopotassium glutamate. • Excessive consumption may lead to headaches, dizziness, or nausea in sensitive individuals. • Not recommended for people with kidney or liver conditions as it may affect electrolyte balance. • Avoid using in the diet of young children or elderly people due to the risk of side effects.

Explore homemade alternatives to processed snacks →

Also known as

• monopotasslum glutamate
• monopota$sium glutamate
• monopotassium glutamate
• monopotassium glutdmate
• monopotassium glutamdte
• monodotassium glutamate
• monopotas$ium glutamate
• monopotassium qlutamate
• monopotdssium glutamate

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