Monosodium glutamate
Learn what Monosodium glutamate (E621) is, why it's added to food, whether it's safe, and which products contain it.
Low concernWhat is Monosodium glutamate?
Monosodium glutamate (MSG) is naturally widespread in free or bound form. In the human body, 20% of protein mass is composed of glutamate. In its free form, it is found in the liver, kidneys, brain, blood, and muscles. Monosodium glutamate is a permanent component of certain foods, including milk, eggs, meat, peas, corn, spinach, tomatoes, etc.
Why is Monosodium glutamate added to food?
Monosodium glutamate (E621) is a flavor enhancer commonly found in: Any food, alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages.
Permitted quantity: There is no established acceptable daily intake for glutamic acid and glutamates as food additives in the EU, but there is a maximum permitted level of 10 g per kg of food.
Is Monosodium glutamate safe?
Low concern
Generally, no side effects occur, as the additive is considered safe by the Joint Expert Committee of the World Health Organization and the Food and Agriculture Organization. However, some individuals report numbness, weakness, tremors, dizziness, headaches, palpitations, or even respiratory problems, panic attacks, mood swings, hyperactivity, nausea, etc.
Is Monosodium glutamate banned anywhere?
✓ Not currently banned in the EU or known to be restricted in other countries.
Common foods that contain Monosodium glutamate
- Any food
- alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages
See the full list of foods that contain Monosodium glutamate →
How to spot Monosodium glutamate on labels
Look for any of these names in the ingredients list:
- E621
- Monosodium glutamate
Common misspellings to watch for:
- mono$odium glutamate
- monosodlum glutamate
- monosodium glutdmate
- monosodium glutamate
- monosodium glutamdte
- monosodium qlutamate
Better alternatives
• May cause allergic reactions or sensitivities in some people, including headaches, excessive sweating, or nausea (known as 'Chinese Restaurant Syndrome'). • People with severe kidney or liver conditions should avoid consumption. • Excessive use can contribute to health problems, including increased risk of obesity and cardiovascular issues. • Not recommended for pregnant or breastfeeding women without medical advice.
Also known as
- mono$odium glutamate
- monosodlum glutamate
- monosodium glutdmate
- monosodium glutamate
- monosodium glutamdte
- monosodium qlutamate
Scan products with BioBrief
Not sure if a product contains Monosodium glutamate? BioBrief scans the barcode and instantly shows you every additive in the ingredients list — including E621 — with a plain-language explanation.
Frequently asked questions about Monosodium glutamate
- Is Monosodium glutamate safe to eat?
- Generally, no side effects occur, as the additive is considered safe by the Joint Expert Committee of the World Health Organization and the Food and Agriculture Organization. However, some individuals report numbness, weakness, tremors, dizziness, headaches, palpitations, or even respiratory problems, panic attacks, mood swings, hyperactivity, nausea, etc.
- Is Monosodium glutamate banned anywhere?
- Monosodium glutamate is not currently banned in the EU or known to be restricted in other countries.
- How do I spot Monosodium glutamate on a food label?
- Look for E621, Monosodium glutamate in the ingredients list. It may also appear as: mono$odium glutamate, monosodlum glutamate, monosodium glutdmate.
Ingredients change. Always check the actual product label before purchasing. Information on this page is for educational purposes only.