RDNs break down the bizarre history and lack-luster research surrounding this commonly tabooed flavor-booster.
But a lot of these MSG conceptions are riddled with controversy and inconclusive evidence.
Heres a closer look at the research to answer the question: Is MSG actually bad for you?
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What Is MSG?
It offers a rich,umami taste, bringing a savory, unctuous, almost meaty flavor to dishes.
Additionally, MSG stimulates taste receptors, helping the other flavor notes in a dish really shine.
However, where youll most abundantly find MSG in the supermarket is in a range of packaged foods.
Just some examples include canned soups, frozen meals, processed meats, certain condiments, and snack foods.
Fast food establishments and some Asian cuisines like Chinese food also frequently employ the use of this taboo seasoning.
The History of MSGs Bad Reputation
MSG has been a controversial ingredient for years, Davis says.
In this letter he complained of numbness, weakness, and palpitation.
His bout of sickness was soon dubbedChinese restaurant syndrome,and later renamed MSG symptom complex (MSC).
Is MSG Actually Bad for You?
This condition is estimated to affect only about 1% of the population, Davis says.
Its characterized by symptoms such as headaches, dizziness, and numbness after consuming MSG.
Other symptoms of MSC may include nausea, tingling, and flushing of the face.
As for the rest of us, the seasoning may not pose such a risk.
However, theres an equally large amount of peer-reviewed evidence that challenges these claims.
Another2018 reviewalso found no significant evidence to prove MSG to be neurotoxic.
Just some of these include a2017 review, a2019 article, a2021 review, and a2022 review.
(This, of course, excludes those who exhibit MSC symptoms.)
