Hidden Names for MSG

MSG stands for monosodium glutamate — it’s a flavor enhancer commonly added to foods to bring out a savory, umami taste (the same flavor found in mushrooms, soy sauce, and meats).

Foods ALWAYS contain free glutamate when these words are on the label:

  • MSG
  • Gelatin
  • Monosodium Glutamate
  • Hydrolyzed Vegetable Protein (HVP)
  • Monopotassium Glutamate
  • Hydrolyzed Plant Protein (HPP)
  • Glutamate
  • Autolyzed Plant Protein
  • Glutamic Acid
  • Sodium Caseinate
  • Vegetable Protein Extract
  • Calcium Caseinate
  • Textured Protein
  • Yeast Extract
  • Yeast Food or Nutrient
  • Autolyzed Yeast

Foods made with the following products OFTEN contain free Glutamate:

  • Malted Barley
  • Protease Enzymes
  • Milk Powder
  • Barley Malt
  • Lecithin
  • Dry Milk Solids
  • Malt Extract or Flavoring
  • Amino Acids
  • Spices
  • Maltodextrin
  • Natural Flavors
  • Soy Protein
  • Dextrose
  • Reaction Flavors
  • Dextrates
  • Soy Sauce
  • Stock
  • Cornstarch
  • Broth
  • Flowing Agents
  • Bouillon
  • Wheat, Rice, Corn, Oat Protein
  • Carrageenan
  • Anything Enriched or vitamin enriched
  • Whey protein or whey
  • Modified Food Starch
  • Whey protein isolate or concentrate
  • Rice Syrup
  • Pectin
  • Low or no fat
  • Protease
  • Caramel Flavoring/ ColoringProtein
  • Corn Syrup, High Fructose Corn Syrup