Glutamates, HIDING IN PLAIN SIGHT
Most people recognize MSG as the most familiar member of the glutamate family, but what many don’t realize is how often glutamates show up in everyday foods under completely different names. Thanks to federal labeling laws, any ingredient that contains less than 99% pure MSG can be listed however the manufacturer chooses. That means glutamates can hide behind a long list of innocent‑sounding terms.
Here are some of the most common names used to disguise glutamates on ingredient labels:
- Hydrolyzed protein
- Vegetable protein
- Soy protein isolate
- Soy protein concentrate
- Whey protein
- Natural flavoring
- Spices
- Enzymes
- Autolyzed yeast extract
- Stock or broth
- Carrageenan
Manufacturers know consumers are wary of MSG, so instead of removing it, they often rename it. Understanding these hidden sources helps you make more informed choices about what you’re eating and how it may affect your health.