Do Cheez-Its Contain MSG?
For many consumers, understanding the ingredients in their favorite snacks is a priority. The question of whether Cheez-Its contain MSG is common, and the answer is not a simple yes or no. The ingredient list varies from one flavor to the next, meaning some varieties do contain monosodium glutamate, while the standard Original cracker does not. This detailed guide will help clarify which versions are free of MSG and which include this common flavor enhancer.
Breaking Down the Ingredients by Flavor
To determine if MSG is in your Cheez-Its, it is crucial to check the specific product label. The inclusion of MSG is not a standard across the entire product line. Here’s a breakdown based on publicly available ingredient information:
Cheez-It Flavors that CONTAIN MSG:
- White Cheddar: Contains monosodium glutamate.
- Cheddar Jack: Contains monosodium glutamate, yeast extract, and other flavor enhancers.
- Cheese Pizza: Contains monosodium glutamate, disodium inosinate, and disodium guanylate.
- Snack Mixes: Certain varieties, like the one with Worcestershire seasoning, explicitly list monosodium glutamate.
Cheez-It Flavors that DO NOT Contain Added MSG:
- Original: The classic baked snack cracker does not list monosodium glutamate as an ingredient.
- Whole Grain: Typically does not contain MSG, but confirming the ingredient label is always best.
What is MSG and Why is it Used?
Monosodium glutamate, or MSG, is the sodium salt of glutamic acid, an amino acid that occurs naturally in many foods like tomatoes, cheese, and mushrooms. It is used as a food additive to enhance savory, or umami, flavors. The FDA recognizes MSG as "generally recognized as safe" (GRAS) and requires it to be listed on ingredient labels when added.
How MSG is listed on labels:
- Monosodium Glutamate: The direct listing of MSG.
- Naturally Occurring Glutamates: Ingredients like yeast extract, hydrolyzed vegetable protein, and soy extracts contain naturally occurring glutamates, but a "no added MSG" claim can still be made.
The Health Debate and Other Additives
While the FDA considers MSG safe, some individuals report mild, short-lived symptoms after consuming large quantities without food. Concerns over "Chinese Restaurant Syndrome" from the late 1960s have been widely debunked as based on weak, biased evidence. However, it is important to recognize that foods containing MSG are often ultra-processed and may contain other controversial ingredients.
For example, some Cheez-It products contain tert-butylhydroquinone (TBHQ), a synthetic antioxidant derived from petroleum. Some studies have raised concerns about TBHQ's potential impact on the immune system, leading to its ban in certain countries. Other processed ingredients include soybean and palm oils, which have their own health and environmental considerations.
Comparison of Cheez-It Varieties
| Feature | Cheez-It Original | Cheez-It White Cheddar | Cheez-It Cheddar Jack |
|---|---|---|---|
| MSG Status | MSG-free | Contains MSG | Contains MSG |
| Other Enhancers | Paprika, yeast | Whey, yeast, natural/artificial flavor | Yeast extract, disodium inosinate, disodium guanylate |
| Cheese Source | Cheese made with skim milk | White cheddar cheese | Cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese |
| Preservatives | TBHQ for freshness | TBHQ for freshness | TBHQ for freshness |
| Key Takeaway | A simple classic, but still processed. | Added MSG for enhanced flavor. | Added MSG for a complex cheese blend flavor. |
What does this mean for you?
For most people, consuming Cheez-Its with MSG is not a health risk, especially in the amounts typically found in snack foods. However, those with specific sensitivities or who prefer to avoid certain additives should be diligent about reading ingredient labels. The difference in formulation highlights that a brand's reputation for one product does not apply to all of its variations. Always check the box to confirm what you're eating.
Visit the FDA website for more information on Monosodium Glutamate.
Conclusion
While the iconic Cheez-It Original cracker is made without added MSG, many of its flavor variations, such as White Cheddar, Cheddar Jack, and various Snack Mixes, do contain monosodium glutamate as a flavor enhancer. The presence of MSG is not a secret but is clearly listed on the ingredient panel of the products that contain it. For consumers who are concerned about MSG, this means exercising caution and always checking the label before purchasing. Beyond MSG, many Cheez-Its contain other processed ingredients and additives like TBHQ, which may also factor into a consumer's purchasing decision. Ultimately, the choice comes down to personal preference and being an informed snacker.
