MSG

MSG - you avoid it right? That’s what you think. Ever see these on a label?

 

“Natural flavors”

“Yeast extract”

“Glutamate”

“Hydro mixed protein”

“E621”

 

All are MSG and the same preservative used in dry cleaning. Totally gross. MSG is used as a flavor enhancer to stimulate taste buds (seriously?!) and it’s not just in your lo mein.

Canned soups, vegetables, tomato products, cheeses and processed meats along with numerous packaged goods have it hidden inside.

And the FDA classifies this as GRAS - generally recognized as safe”.  What does that even mean??

 

Here are a few more MSG culprits that might surprise you:

  • Chik fil a  chicken sandwich
  • Kentucky fried chicken chicken breast
  • Most pizza chain pizza -see link below
  • Doritos, Pringles
  • Bouillon cubes, fish/poultry rubs
  • Packaged seasoning packets
  • Frozen meals
  • Frozen pizzas
  • Campbell’s chicken noodle soup
  • Oscar Meyer hot dogs
  • Heinz ketchup
  • Lunchmeat, sausage
  • Hidden Valley Ranch
  • Salad dressings, barbecue sauce

 

The good news is there is healthy swap for ALL of this. Buy fresh and organic. Avoid processed foods. Minimize boxed goods and opt for less ingredients the better if you do. Make at home when you can and above all, read your food labels. Just because it’s on a shelf doesn’t mean it’s safe!

 

Sources:

https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/foods-with-msg#Is-MSG-harmful?

http://www.rejuvenatewellnesscenter.com/healthy-choices/ingredients-to-avoid/hidden-names-for-monosodium-glutamate--msg-.html

Pizza info - https://foodbabe.com/if-youve-ever-eaten-pizza-before-this-will-blow-your-mind/

 

*Image sourced from https://www.realmomnutrition.com/natural-flavors/

Posted in Health Hacks