"It's not what you eat that kills you, it's what you don't eat. If you're sick and tired of being sick and tired, educate yourself and start with the Healthy Start Pack. The key to health is giving your body all 90 essential nutrients it needs."

Dr Joel Wallach, DVM ND

Thursday, June 2, 2011

MSG, HIDING IN PLAIN SIGHT

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.