By now,you’ve probably heard about the effects that MSG can have on your health – and you know they are not good at all! So you’ve went and decided to avoid foods that contain it on their ingredient list.
What you may not know though is you’ve only scratched the surface by looking specifically for that on the label. Unfortunately, many products seem to be, or even say they are “MSG free” but that is simply not true. There are many hidden names for msg that still contain the toxin, and it is perfectly legal under current labeling laws to claim to be free of it.
Yes, you should be outraged – but you should also be educated because with some closer label reading and with a little more education you can still avoid MSG for you and your family's safety.
What is MSG?
Monosodium Glutamate which contains Manufactured Glutamic Acid is a man-made ingredient used to alter the taste of thousands of grocery store products. It “tricks” our brains into perceiving a more enhanced flavor than actually exists in processed foods. An excitotoxin, MSG is a type of chemical transmitter that permits brain cells to communicate. Real glutamic acid is naturally occurring in most protein foods and does not cause a reaction in people.
The Hidden Names
Here are some FDA approved names found on food labels that will always mean the foods contain MSG:
- Monosodium Glutamate (not really hidden, but you need to know the full name for MSG)
- Monopotassium Glutamate
- Glutamate
- Glutamic Acid
- Gelatin
- Hydrolyzed Vegetable Protein (HVP)
- Hydrolyzed Plant Protein (HPP)
- Autolyzed Plant Protein
- Sodium Caseinate
- Calcium Caseinate
- Textured Protein
- Yeast Extract
- Yeast Food or Nutrient
- Autolyzed Yeast
As mentioned above, MSG is an excitotoxin and the concern is that these can literally excite your brain cells to an early death with over-exposure. Aside from wreaking havoc with your brain, MSG has also been the culprit in eye damage, headaches, fatigue, disorientation and depression.
Not Just In Food
MSG reactions have been reported resulting from the use of soaps, shampoos, hair conditioners and cosmetics. The hidden MSG ingredients in those contain the words “hydrolyzed”, “amino acids” and “protein”. Binders and fillers for medications and supplements both prescription and non-prescription may contain MSG. Drinks, candy and chewing gum also potentially contain hidden sources of MSG.
The best thing to do to ensure something is TRULY free from MSG is to avoid foods with lengthy ingredient lists. If a food contains even one ingredient that you don’t understand, leave it on the grocery shelf. As always, a diet that relies most heavily on fresh fruits, vegetables, 100% whole grains, organic meats, and made from scratch sauces will be your best bets.
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