Understanding the Common Ingredients
Everything bagel seasoning, a beloved condiment, typically relies on a core set of ingredients to achieve its savory, crunchy profile. The classic blend includes a mix of seeds, dehydrated aromatics, and salt. Understanding these basic components is the first step to determining if your particular shaker contains MSG.
Core Components of the Classic Everything Bagel Seasoning
- Poppy Seeds: These contribute a nutty flavor and a distinct crunch. They are a staple of the everything bagel topping and seasoning.
- Toasted Sesame Seeds (White and Black): Offering a rich, nutty flavor when toasted, sesame seeds are essential for both taste and visual appeal.
- Dried Minced Garlic: Provides a pungent, savory aroma that is fundamental to the seasoning's profile.
- Dried Minced Onion: Offers a milder, sweeter onion flavor than fresh onion and provides additional texture.
- Sea Salt Flakes or Coarse Salt: Crucial for enhancing all the other flavors and adding a salty, briny kick.
The Role of Natural Glutamates
Monosodium glutamate (MSG) is the sodium salt of glutamic acid, an amino acid found naturally in many foods. Even if a product does not contain added MSG, it might still have naturally occurring glutamates from ingredients. For example, some formulations might use yeast extract, which is a concentrated source of natural glutamate. The presence of these natural compounds, however, is not the same as adding pure monosodium glutamate as a separate ingredient. Many manufacturers choose to avoid added MSG to appeal to a health-conscious market.
Comparison: Popular Brands and MSG Content
Since everything bagel seasoning is not a regulated recipe, the ingredients can vary significantly by manufacturer. Here is a comparison of some popular brands and their MSG status.
| Feature | Trader Joe's "Everything But The Bagel" Seasoning | McCormick Culinary Everything Bagel Seasoning | Oh My Spice Everything Bagel Seasoning |
|---|---|---|---|
| Added MSG? | No | No | No |
| Key Ingredients | Sesame Seeds, Sea Salt, Dried Minced Garlic, Dried Minced Onion, Black Sesame Seeds, Poppy Seeds | Sesame Seeds, Poppy Seed, Dried Garlic, Salt, Dried Onion | Sesame Seeds, Onion, Garlic, Poppy Seeds, Sea Salt |
| Other Features | Contains no artificial flavors or preservatives | Kosher certified | Gluten-free, non-GMO, vegan, low-sodium |
| Flavor Profile | Classic savory and salty blend | Classic, balanced flavor | Bold, clean, and classic taste |
The Truth About MSG and Everything Bagel Seasoning
For the vast majority of readily available, commercial everything bagel seasoning blends, the answer is a clear "no, there is no added MSG." The flavor profile is naturally achieved through a combination of savory ingredients. Garlic and onion, in their dehydrated forms, provide the umami, or savory taste, that some people might mistakenly attribute to MSG. The savory and salty character is a product of these base ingredients, and no artificial flavor enhancer is needed to make the blend delicious.
Some manufacturers go a step further, explicitly advertising their products as MSG-free to reassure consumers. Brands like Trader Joe's, Oh My Spice, and McCormick are transparent with their ingredient lists and certifications. This makes it easier for consumers to find suitable products, especially those with dietary sensitivities. Ultimately, if you are concerned about MSG, your best course of action is to check the ingredient list of the specific brand you are considering.
The Rise of DIY Everything Bagel Seasoning
For those who wish to have complete control over every single ingredient, making everything bagel seasoning at home is a simple and rewarding process. This allows you to guarantee that no additives or preservatives are included and to adjust the ratios of the ingredients to your personal taste.
A Simple DIY Everything Bagel Seasoning Recipe
- Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons poppy seeds
- 2 tablespoons toasted sesame seeds
- 1 tablespoon black sesame seeds
- 1 tablespoon dried minced garlic
- 1 tablespoon dried minced onion
- 1 tablespoon coarse sea salt
- Instructions:
- Combine all the ingredients in a small bowl.
- Mix thoroughly until evenly distributed.
- Store in an airtight container for up to six months.
This homemade version is guaranteed to be MSG-free and customizable. If you prefer less salt, you can reduce the amount. If you want a more garlicky kick, add more dried minced garlic. The possibilities are endless, and you can rest assured that your blend is made from only the ingredients you select.
Conclusion: Read the Label to Be Sure
While the answer to "does everything bagel seasoning have MSG in it?" is generally no for most major brands, the only way to be 100% certain is to read the nutritional label. The classic ingredients of seeds, dried garlic, dried onion, and salt create a robust, satisfying flavor profile on their own. Many popular brands, including those from Trader Joe's and McCormick, explicitly confirm they do not add MSG. For the ultimate control, a simple DIY recipe offers a reliable way to enjoy this versatile seasoning without any worry about additives. The transparency of manufacturers and the ease of making your own blend mean that consumers can make informed choices about what they are eating.
For additional context on food additives and ingredients, the FDA website can serve as an authoritative resource [https://www.fda.gov/food/food-additives-petitions/questions-and-answers-monosodium-glutamate-msg].
