Micin

Micin, also known as monosodium glutamate or MSG, is a sodium salt of glutamic acid, an amino acid. It is commonly used as a food additive to enhance flavor, particularly savory or umami tastes. Glutamic acid is naturally present in many foods such as tomatoes, cheese, and mushrooms. MSG is produced commercially through the fermentation of starch, sugar, or beet molasses. It is recognized as safe by regulatory bodies worldwide, including the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Despite its widespread use and safety profile, some individuals report experiencing adverse reactions after consuming foods containing MSG. These reported symptoms, often referred to as the "MSG symptom complex," can include headaches, flushing, sweating, and numbness. However, scientific studies have largely failed to establish a consistent causal link between MSG consumption and these symptoms in the general population. Manufacturers may list MSG as an ingredient or use terms like "spices," "natural flavors," or "hydrolyzed vegetable protein" on food labels, under which MSG can be present.