E621 , Monosodium Glutamate (MSG)

Why this classification

EFSA 2017 reduced ADI to 30 mg/kg body weight. Headaches reported at high intake.

Common uses in industrial food

Monosodium Glutamate (MSG) (E621) is used by food manufacturers for amplifying savoury or umami taste in soups, snacks, instant noodles, sauces and processed meat. It is most often listed in the ingredient panel as E621, Monosodium Glutamate (MSG), or under one of its trade names. On a NutriDécrypte product page, this additive contributes to the additives axis (20% of the overall A to E grade), and triggers a label warning when its EFSA risk level is medium or high.

If you want to limit your exposure to this additive, the simplest tactic is to read the ingredients list (not just the front-of-pack), and to favour products graded A or B in our independent catalog. Less processed, NOVA-1 or NOVA-2 categories rarely contain it.

Frequently asked questions

Is E621 (Monosodium Glutamate (MSG)) safe?

EFSA classifies the risk level of E621 as medium risk in its latest review. It is also flagged as controversial by independent toxicology reviewers, meaning the scientific consensus is contested. Always read the latest official opinion before drawing conclusions for your own diet, and consult a registered dietitian for medical questions.

What is E621 typically used for?

Food manufacturers use Monosodium Glutamate (MSG) primarily for amplifying savoury or umami taste in soups, snacks, instant noodles, sauces and processed meat. You will most often find it in ultra-processed foods (NOVA group 4) and rarely in unprocessed or minimally processed products (NOVA 1 or 2).

How can I avoid E621 on a label?

Look for the code E621 or its full name Monosodium Glutamate (MSG) in the ingredients list, usually printed in small font on the back of the pack. Cooking from raw ingredients, choosing NOVA-1 or NOVA-2 alternatives, and using the NutriDécrypte rankings to filter by grade A or B are the three most reliable strategies.