Uses Of Monosodium Glutamate (MSG) In Foods By Restaurants

Monosodium glutamate (MSG) is a food additive used by many restaurants and in processed food to enhance the flavourful (umami) taste of foods. What is MSG- MSG is the sodium form of naturally occurring glutamic acid, a naturally occurring amino acid in foods (e.g., mushrooms, cheese, tomatoes). It is commonly used to add umami taste to foods without adding extra calories or changing the basic taste.

Why Restaurants Use MSG-

Umami Taste Enhancement: Enhances the umami or Savory flavour  intensifying the flavour of foods such as soups, stir-fries, and meats.

Cost-Effectiveness: Enables chefs to prepare meals using less costly ingredients yet with intense flavour.

Menu Appeal : Enable duplication and enhancement of the flavour of authentic recipes,

Particularly Asian, fast food, and processed foods.

 

Foods With MSG-

·         Chinese and Southeast Asian foods (e.g., ramen, stir-fries)

·         Soups and broths

·         Fast foods (e.g., fried chicken, season fries)

·         Sauces, dressing, and marinades

·         Pre-packaged or pre-prepared meals

 

MSG Alternatives-

Foods like chips and fast food aren't actually included in the best diet when eaten all the time and can cause obesity, heart disease, diabetes, and other problems. Stop eating these foods in order to cut out MSG from your diet.

We can use other alternatives of MSG or natural flavour enhancers like

·         Garlic powder

·         Onion powder

·         Ginger

·         Basil

·         Oregano

·         Thyme

·         Dill

 

Health and Safety Issues-

The United States Food and Drug Administration, which is also known as

 FDA, includes MSG as a food ingredient which is safe to consume in normal amount

However, some individuals can react to MSG. For that purpose, whenever MSG is being added to food, the FDA requires that it is included on the label.

These reactions, which are referred as MSG symptom complex, are not allergic reactions. They might include:

·         Headache.

·         Visual aura without headache.

·         Flushing.

·         Body tingling.

·         Rapid, fluttering heartbeats, which are referred to as palpitations.

·         Chest pain or weight.

·         Nausea, feeling sick to the stomach.

·         Muscle pain.

 

MSG has become standard in the restaurant business to add flavor cost-effectively. Though considered safe for most consumer for honesty and compliance with customer expectations providing MSG-free menu items—continue to be Essential In today's food business.