Additive
Monosodium glutamate
Low concern
Not a red flag on its own. Pay attention if it shows up often.
What it is
MSG. A savoury booster.
Why it’s used
Makes cheap broth taste like more.
What to know
Safe for most. A few people report a reaction; most do not.
Who should skip
Anyone who knows they react to MSG.
A gentler swap
Salt, mushrooms, a longer simmer.
You’ll see it in
Instant noodles, snack dust.
- Listed as an additive
Found in
- Maggi Chicken Flavor Bouillon Cubes25
- Doritos Nacho Cheese25
- Goya Sazón Coriander & Annatto26
- Hormel Black Label Bacon27
- Cup Noodles Chicken28
- Oscar Mayer Bologna28
- Hillshire Farm Polska Kielbasa31
- Cheetos Crunchy32
- Hillshire Farm Smoked Sausage32
- Maggi Seasoning Sauce33
- DiGiorno Rising Crust Pepperoni34
- Doritos Nacho Cheese35