Disclaimer: This database provides factual regulatory information compiled from official government sources. It does not constitute medical, nutritional, or safety advice. Regulatory status varies by country and may change. Always refer to your local regulatory authority for the most current information.
Monosodium Glutamate
E621 | INS 621
Names & Identifiers
- E Number
- E621
- INS Number
- 621
- CAS Number
- 142-47-2
- Scientific Name
- Monosodium (2S)-2-aminopentanedioate
- Japanese Name
- L-グルタミン酸ナトリウム
- Also Known As
- MSG, Sodium glutamate, Ajinomoto, Ve-Tsin
Regulation Status by Country
European Union
Status: approved | Max level: quantum satis mg/kg
Widely permitted in most food categories
View EFSA Opinion →United States
Status: approved | GRAS
Must be declared on ingredient labels
Japan
Status: approved | Category: 既存添加物
Often labeled as 調味料（アミノ酸等）
Australia / New Zealand
Status: approved | Code: 621
Canada
Status: approved
What is Monosodium Glutamate?
Classification
Function: flavour enhancer
Type: amino acid salt
Source: fermentation
Natural Occurrence
The sodium salt of glutamic acid, an amino acid that occurs naturally in many foods and in the human body. Responsible for the umami (savory) taste.
Found in: tomatoes, cheese, mushrooms, seaweed (kombu), soy sauce
How It's Made
Method: fermentation
Commercially produced by bacterial fermentation of carbohydrates (e.g., sugar beet, sugar cane, cassava, corn) using Corynebacterium glutamicum.
Uses Beyond Food
- Household: Sold as flavor enhancer (Ac'cent, Ajinomoto brand)
Commonly Found In
Monosodium Glutamate is typically used in:
Note: This list shows typical product categories and may vary by brand and region. Always check product labels for actual ingredients.
Safety Evaluations (Official)
EFSA (EU)
ADI: Not specified (no safety concern at current use levels)
Evaluated: 2017
ADI = Acceptable Daily Intake (mg per kg of body weight per day)
Research & Official Documents
Official evaluations and scientific research:
Search research databases:
Regulatory History
View Full Timeline →Key regulatory events and safety evaluations over time.
Japanese chemist Kikunae Ikeda isolated glutamic acid from kombu seaweed and identified umami as the fifth basic taste.
MSG commercially produced and marketed in Japan as 'Ajinomoto' (essence of taste).
Dr. Kwok published letter in New England Journal of Medicine describing symptoms after eating at Chinese restaurants, coining term 'Chinese Restaurant Syndrome'.
Animal studies suggested possible neurotoxic effects at very high doses, sparking public concern.
Federation of American Societies for Experimental Biology (FASEB) conducted review, found MSG safe for most people.
JECFA placed MSG in safest category for food additives, with ADI 'not specified' meaning no safety concerns at current use levels.
FDA commissioned comprehensive report by FASEB, concluded MSG is safe for general population. Acknowledged small percentage may have short-term reactions.
EFSA re-evaluated glutamic acid and glutamates (E620-E625), concluded no safety concern at current use and exposure levels.
Growing recognition that term 'Chinese Restaurant Syndrome' is misleading and potentially racist. Medical community moving away from the term.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Monosodium Glutamate (E621)?
Monosodium Glutamate (E621) is a flavour enhancer used in food products. It is amino acid salt and fermentation. The sodium salt of glutamic acid, an amino acid that occurs naturally in many foods and in the human body. Responsible for the umami (savory) taste.
Where is Monosodium Glutamate found naturally?
Monosodium Glutamate is naturally found in tomatoes, cheese, mushrooms, seaweed (kombu), soy sauce. The sodium salt of glutamic acid, an amino acid that occurs naturally in many foods and in the human body. Responsible for the umami (savory) taste.
What foods contain Monosodium Glutamate?
Monosodium Glutamate is used in various food categories including Seasonings and condiments. It is used as a flavour enhancer in these products.
Is Monosodium Glutamate the same as MSG?
Yes, Monosodium Glutamate is also known as MSG, Sodium glutamate, Ajinomoto, Ve-Tsin. These are different names for the same substance.