### What is MSG? Monosodium glutamate (MSG) is a flavor enhancer that makes food taste savory or umami. It is a salt form of glutamic acid, an amino acid found naturally in many foods and in our bodies. ### How is MSG Made? MSG is produced by fermenting starch, sugar beets, sugar cane, or molasses, similar to how yogurt, vinegar, and wine are made. ### Foods Containing MSG - **Seasonings**: Many seasoning packets, like taco seasoning, contain MSG to enhance flavor. - **Fast Food**: Chains like KFC, Chick-fil-A, Wendy’s, and McDonald’s use MSG in items like fried chicken. - **Soups**: Canned soups, such as Campbell’s chicken noodle soup, often contain MSG. - **Dressings and Condiments**: Ketchup, mayonnaise, barbecue sauce, soy sauce, mustard, and salad dressings may have MSG. - **Chips and Snacks**: Many chips and savory snacks include MSG for added flavor. ### Using MSG in Cooking You can add MSG to soups, stews, vegetables, and other recipes to enhance flavor. It contains less sodium than salt, making it a good option for those on a low-sodium diet. ### Is MSG Safe? Despite myths, MSG is safe to eat. The FDA recognizes it as “generally recognized as safe” (GRAS). High-quality studies have debunked the idea that MSG causes health problems. In fact, it can be part of a healthy diet, especially for those needing to reduce sodium intake. ### Health Benefits MSG provides energy and may improve learning and memory. It contains one-third less sodium than salt, making it a healthier option for seasoning food. ### Common Myths - **Does MSG make you sleepy?** No evidence supports this. - **Can MSG cause cancer?** No evidence supports this. ### Conclusion MSG is a safe and effective way to enhance the flavor of your food. It can be especially beneficial for those needing to reduce their sodium intake.