MSG has many different names

The food additive 621 MSG is most obviously found listed on a label as 620-622. However MSG is contained in may other ingredients food where it is not listed so conveniently. To avoid MSG in all its disguises be on the lookout for:

Hydrolised vegetable protein, potassium glutamate , sodium caseinate, hydrolysed protein, hydrolysed plant protein, autolysed year, plant protein extract, calcium caseinate, hydrolysed oat flour, yeast extract, textured protein and generally anything hydrolosed.

Other ingredients that MAY contain MSG include broth, malt flavouring, some flavours and spices, seasonings, malt extract, bouillons, stock and stock subes, and some natural flavourings.

MSG use is not limited to Chinese food. It is frequently found in snacks and savory biscuits, tinned savory foods and soups, many frozen or packaged meals, sauces, condiments and preserved meats.

One way to reduce MSG is to avoid foods with flavorings added and if you look for additives in the range 620-637 and avoid foods that list them as ingredients you will vastly reduce your intake.

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Lindy Schneider is a writer and researcher with a keen interest in health, wellbeing and natural childcare. She is an advocator of a chemical-free lifestyle in the best interests of her family, the community and a sustainable world. She lives in the Yarra Valley with her partner and two young children.