Is Herbamare a Source of Monosodium Glutamate?
No, the manufacturer A.Vogel explicitly states that Herbamare original is free from added monosodium glutamate (MSG). This is an important distinction for consumers avoiding artificial flavor additives. The savory taste of Herbamare comes from a blend of fresh, organic herbs and vegetables infused into sea salt through a special maceration process. The umami flavor is due to naturally occurring glutamates in ingredients like kelp, celery, and tomatoes, which differ from the concentrated form of glutamic acid in artificial MSG.
The All-Natural Flavor Profile: How Herbamare Works
Herbamare's flavor is derived from organic ingredients, including various herbs and vegetables like celery leaves, leek, onion, chives, parsley, and kelp, combined with sea salt. The infusion process allows these flavors to meld, creating a potent seasoning. The umami notes are naturally present in several components:
- Kelp: Naturally rich in free glutamates, contributing to the umami taste.
- Tomatoes and Celery: Contain free glutamate, enhancing savory notes.
Dissecting the Umami Experience: Natural vs. Added MSG
Both natural ingredients and added MSG provide umami, but their sources and processing differ. The glutamate in Herbamare is bound within whole-food ingredients, while added MSG is an isolated sodium salt of glutamic acid. While the body metabolizes them similarly, Herbamare offers a less processed option.
Herbamare vs. Conventional Seasoning Blends: A Comparison
Here is a comparison highlighting differences between Herbamare and conventional blends that might contain added MSG:
| Feature | Herbamare (Original) | Conventional Seasoning Blend (with MSG) |
|---|---|---|
| MSG Content | No added MSG | Often contains MSG |
| Flavor Source | Natural glutamates from organic ingredients | Isolated sodium salt of glutamic acid |
| Ingredients | Sea salt, 12 organic herbs/vegetables, kelp | Can include hydrolyzed protein, yeast extract, etc. |
| Preservatives | No artificial preservatives | Can contain artificial preservatives |
| Allergens | Free from gluten, lactose, milk protein | Often contains allergens or fillers |
The Labeling Lowdown: How to Spot Added Glutamates
Reading labels is key to identifying added glutamates. Beyond "monosodium glutamate," look for terms like "autolyzed yeast extracts," "hydrolyzed plant protein," or "yeast extract". Processed foods like soups and snacks are common sources. Choosing products like Herbamare with whole-food ingredients simplifies this.
Conclusion
Herbamare original is a natural seasoning without added MSG. Its savory flavor comes from naturally occurring glutamates in organic herbs, vegetables, and sea salt. Offering a whole-food approach, Herbamare is an MSG-free alternative for enhancing flavor in cooking.
Frequently Asked Questions about Herbamare and MSG
1. What is the main difference between natural glutamate and added MSG? Natural glutamate is bound within the protein structures of whole foods like vegetables, while added MSG is a concentrated, isolated sodium salt of glutamic acid that is added to enhance flavor.
2. How does Herbamare get its savory flavor without MSG? Herbamare's savory taste comes from the naturally occurring free glutamates found in its organic ingredients, such as kelp, celery, and ripe tomatoes.
3. Is Herbamare suitable for people with MSG sensitivities? Yes, because Herbamare contains no added MSG, it is suitable for individuals with sensitivities to the isolated additive. However, it's always wise to check with a doctor if you are extremely sensitive to any food components, as natural glutamates are present.
4. Is there a difference between the glutamate in kelp and the glutamate in MSG? While both natural and added glutamate are chemically similar and metabolized the same way, the key difference lies in the concentration and source. The glutamate in kelp is naturally occurring and less concentrated than commercially produced MSG.
5. Can I use Herbamare as a salt alternative? Yes, Herbamare is designed to be a replacement for conventional table salt. It offers a rich, herbaceous flavor that allows you to use less salt overall while still enhancing the taste of your food.
6. What are some other ingredients to look out for on food labels besides MSG? Besides monosodium glutamate, keep an eye out for terms like 'hydrolyzed vegetable protein,' 'yeast extract,' 'autolyzed yeast,' and 'natural flavors,' as these can be hidden sources of added glutamates.
7. Is the Herbamare vegetable bouillon also free from MSG? According to A.Vogel, their Herbamare broth products are also made without added MSG, though it's always best to check the specific product label as formulations can vary.
