E621

E621: Monosodium glutamate

Low concernFunction: flavour enhancer

What is E621?

E621 (Monosodium glutamate) is a flavour enhancer used in processed foods.

What the research says

MSG. Safe for most people at normal intakes. EFSA set an acceptable daily intake of 30 mg per kg in 2017.

Regulatory status

European UnionApproved
United StatesApproved

Questions people ask

Is E621 (Monosodium glutamate) safe?

MSG. Safe for most people at normal intakes. EFSA set an acceptable daily intake of 30 mg per kg in 2017.

Why is E621 added to food?

It is used as a flavour enhancer.

Does E621 make a food ultra-processed?

Yes. Under the NOVA system, cosmetic additives such as E621 mark a food as ultra-processed.

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