Monosodium glutamate (E621)
Monosodium glutamate (MSG, E621) is a flavour enhancer that adds umami taste. It is authorised in the EU, and EFSA set a group safe intake for glutamates in 2017.
What it is
Glutamate also occurs naturally in tomatoes, cheese and soy sauce. Added glutamates appear as monosodium glutamate or E621 to E625, and often as "flavour enhancer".
How IngrediScan rates it
These levels come from the fixed rules in the IngrediScan app. A low level means the rules found little or no concern for that profile. It does not mean the ingredient is safe for everyone.
| Profile | Food |
|---|---|
| Adult | Medium |
| Child | Medium |
| Infant | Medium |
| Dog | Low |
| Cat | Low |
For people, the app takes a precautionary view. It follows EFSA's group intake limit of 30 mg per kg body weight per day, which EFSA based on neurodevelopmental findings. For dogs and cats the concern is small.
Basis of the ratings: limited or mixed data, errs on safety.
Possible concerns: Neurotoxic.
The app's rationale (exact text)
- Adult (food), Child (food), Infant (food), Dog (food), Cat (food): Umami enhancer class: EFSA 2017 group ADI 30 mg/kg bw per day from a neurodevelopmental point of departure; precautionary mapping.
Rules and use
Authorised in the EU. In 2017 EFSA re-evaluated glutamic acid and glutamates (E620 to E625) and set a group acceptable daily intake of 30 mg per kg body weight per day, expressed as glutamic acid.
Read the guide: E-numbers explained
Sources
Related ingredients
The assessment is for information only. It does not replace the manufacturer's label or advice from a doctor or vet. Text recognition (OCR) can miss part of a label. No result does not mean the product is safe.