E621 - Monosodium Glutamate (MSG)
Author: Joe Fowler
Time for reading: ~1
minutes
Last Updated:
January 27, 2026
CHAPTERS (Table Of Contents)
Characteristics: Sodium glutamate is a crystalline white powder or crystals of pure white color. E 621 has no smell, has a specific and characteristic taste. Dissolves completely in aqueous medium, medium
Characteristic
Sodium glutamate is a crystalline white powder or crystals of pure white color. E 621 has no smell, has a specific and characteristic taste. It dissolves completely in aqueous medium, has a medium solubility in ethanol and does not dissolve in ether. Obtained by microbiological synthesis, can be of natural or artificial origin. The supplement has the property to increase the sensitivity of the receptors on the tongue, as a result of which the taste sensations are enhanced. This is the reason why the substance is used mainly as a food additive that effectively enhances the taste.
Use
The flavoring and flavoring E 621 is most often added to canned dishes, food concentrates intended for quick cooking. It is also used in canned fish and meat, pâtés, chips, sauces, crackers, mayonnaise, ketchup and other finished products with salt content.
Impact on humans
The human body recognizes the supplement E 521 as a simple nucleic acid, it is absorbed and metabolized. Taking high doses of monosodium glutamate can cause the appearance of the specific "Chinese restaurant syndrome" in sensitive people. This condition manifests itself in the form of general weakness, rapid heartbeat, temporary loss of sensitivity in the spine and neck. Loss of vision and thinning of the retina are possible (result established after experiments on rats). Leads to glaucoma.
Hygiene standards allow a maximum amount of 120 mg of acid per 1 kg of body weight. According to the latest information, long-term use of the supplement E 621 can lead to a number of serious diseases, for example: Alzheimer's disease, autism, attention deficit disorder (difficulty concentrating), diabetes, hyperactivity, migraine.
- E622 Monopotassium glutamate
- E624 Monoammonium glutamate
- E623 Calcium diglutamate
- E339 Sodium phosphates
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