glutamaattinatrium

Glutamaattinatrium, also known as monosodium glutamate or MSG, is a sodium salt of glutamic acid, one of the most common amino acids. It is widely used as a food additive to enhance savory or umami flavors. Glutamic acid naturally occurs in many foods, and MSG is essentially a concentrated form of this flavor-enhancing property. It functions by stimulating taste receptors on the tongue that are specific for umami. MSG is produced through the fermentation of carbohydrates, similar to the process used for producing yogurt or vinegar. It is a white, crystalline powder that is soluble in water. The use of MSG as a food additive is approved by regulatory bodies in many countries, including the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA). While generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by these agencies, some individuals report experiencing transient symptoms after consuming foods containing MSG, though scientific studies have not consistently demonstrated a causal link. These reported symptoms, often collectively referred to as "MSG symptom complex," can include headaches, flushing, and sweating. MSG is found in a variety of processed foods, including soups, snacks, and savory seasonings.