Do Cheetos Contain MSG? A Look at the Ingredients

November 30, 2025 •

3 min read

According to Frito-Lay's ingredient labels, many popular Cheetos products, including classic Crunchy and Flamin' Hot varieties, do contain monosodium glutamate (MSG). For consumers curious about what's in their favorite cheesy snack, knowing whether Cheetos contain MSG is a common and important question.

Quick Summary

Ingredient lists reveal that many standard Cheetos products contain MSG, while specific sub-brands like 'Simply' offer an MSG-free alternative. The article explains what MSG is and its function as a flavor enhancer.

Key Points

MSG is present in most standard Cheetos: Many classic Cheetos flavors like Crunchy and Flamin' Hot explicitly list monosodium glutamate in their ingredients.
Some varieties are MSG-free: The 'Simply' line of Cheetos, such as Simply Crunchy White Cheddar, is a confirmed MSG-free alternative.
MSG is a flavor enhancer: Its primary purpose is to provide a savory, umami taste that intensifies and deepens the flavor profile of the snack.
Check the label for certainty: The most reliable way to determine if a specific Cheetos product contains MSG is to read the ingredient list, looking for 'monosodium glutamate'.
Natural glutamates also play a role: Ingredients like cheddar cheese, whey, and yeast extract, also present in Cheetos, contain natural glutamates that contribute to the umami flavor.
Health authorities consider MSG safe: The FDA and WHO classify MSG as generally recognized as safe (GRAS) for most consumers, and reports of adverse effects are largely unsubstantiated by science.
Synergistic flavor enhancers exist: Other ingredients such as disodium inosinate and disodium guanylate are sometimes used alongside MSG to amplify the savory flavor.

Unpacking the Cheetos Ingredient List

For most food products, the most direct way to confirm the presence of an additive is by checking the ingredient list. The classic Cheetos Crunchy, for example, explicitly lists "monosodium glutamate" as a component of its cheese seasoning. This confirms that a wide range of standard Cheetos varieties are made with this well-known flavor enhancer.

The Role of MSG in Cheetos

MSG is added to Cheetos to provide a savory, or umami, taste that deepens and enhances the flavor of the cheese seasoning. It interacts with other flavor components like the artificial cheese, salt, and spices to create a more impactful and satisfying taste profile. Without MSG, the flavor could be perceived as flatter or less intense. It's a strategic tool used by manufacturers to achieve a consistent and enjoyable taste that keeps consumers coming back.

Not All Cheetos Are the Same: MSG-Free Options

While MSG is a staple in many Cheetos products, Frito-Lay also offers alternatives for consumers who wish to avoid the additive. The "Simply" line of Cheetos is a notable example. Products like Cheetos Simply Crunchy White Cheddar are made without added MSG, and a quick check of the ingredient list for these specific items will confirm its absence. When purchasing, it is crucial to read the label carefully and distinguish between the various Cheetos product lines to know exactly what is included.

The Umami Experience Beyond MSG

It's important to understand that umami flavor can come from many sources besides added MSG. The cheese in Cheetos, particularly the cheddar cheese, contains naturally occurring glutamates. Other ingredients found in Cheetos, like whey protein concentrate and yeast extract, are also sources of glutamates and contribute to the overall savory flavor. These ingredients provide the same umami sensation as MSG, just in a less concentrated form.

Is MSG Safe? Addressing the Controversy

MSG has been the subject of public debate for decades, largely fueled by anecdotes related to "Chinese Restaurant Syndrome," a term coined in the 1960s. However, health organizations worldwide have concluded that MSG is safe for most people. Both the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the World Health Organization (WHO) classify MSG as "generally recognized as safe" (GRAS). Scientific studies have not found a conclusive link between MSG and the reported symptoms in most individuals. A very small number of people may have a sensitivity, but this is rare and not related to the widespread claims of harm.

Key Additives for Flavor Enhancement

Besides MSG, other flavor enhancers can be found on ingredient labels. Some of these are known to work synergistically with MSG to boost the savory flavor even further. These include:

Disodium inosinate (IMP)
Disodium guanylate (GMP)
Yeast extract
Autolyzed yeast

These ingredients provide a similar umami effect and are often used together to create a more complex flavor profile. When reading a label, look for these as well if you are trying to avoid concentrated umami sources.

Comparison Table: Cheetos Flavors and MSG Status


Cheetos Flavor	Contains MSG?	Other Glutamate Sources	Notes
Crunchy Cheddar	Yes	Whey, Cheddar Cheese	Classic crunchy snack with MSG in seasoning.
Flamin' Hot Crunchy	Yes	Yeast Extract, Cheddar Cheese	The spicy variant explicitly lists MSG.
Puffs	Yes	Whey, Cheddar Cheese	Contains MSG in the cheese seasoning.
Simply White Cheddar	No	Cheddar Cheese, Whey	Markets itself as a simpler ingredient product.

Conclusion: Navigating Cheetos for Informed Choices

So, do Cheetos contain MSG? For most of the classic and popular flavors, the answer is yes. The ingredient is explicitly listed on the package label and plays a key role in delivering that signature cheesy, savory taste. However, for consumers who prefer to avoid the additive, the "Simply" line offers a clear MSG-free alternative. By carefully reading the ingredient list, you can make an informed choice based on your preferences. The scientific consensus is that MSG is safe for consumption by the general population, so your decision is ultimately a matter of personal preference regarding food additives.

For more information on MSG and flavor, you can visit Ajinomoto Group's page on the topic.

Frequently Asked Questions

No, not all Cheetos flavors contain added monosodium glutamate. While standard varieties like Crunchy and Flamin' Hot do, the 'Simply' line of Cheetos is specifically marketed as being free of added MSG.

The most reliable method is to check the ingredient list on the product's packaging. Look for the term "monosodium glutamate" or its abbreviation, MSG.

MSG is a flavor enhancer used to give Cheetos a stronger, more complex, and savory umami flavor profile. It is a key part of the distinct seasoning.

Yes, some Cheetos products also contain other glutamate-rich ingredients like yeast extract and whey protein concentrate, which provide a similar savory taste.

Yes, major health authorities like the FDA and WHO consider MSG to be generally recognized as safe (GRAS) for most of the population. Claims of adverse reactions like "Chinese Restaurant Syndrome" have largely been debunked.

Some people report sensitivities to MSG, experiencing symptoms like headaches or flushing. While scientific evidence does not support a widespread link for most people, some choose to avoid it for personal reasons.

Yes, the ingredient label for Flamin' Hot Cheetos varieties typically includes monosodium glutamate as part of its seasoning blend.

The MSG used in Cheetos is an added ingredient produced through fermentation, though it is chemically identical to glutamates found naturally in foods like cheese and tomatoes.