The Nuance of "No Added MSG"
On its website, Progresso states, "we do not add any additional MSG" to their soups. This is an important distinction from being completely MSG-free. While the company does not introduce the pure, isolated form of monosodium glutamate (E621), many of its products contain other ingredients that are natural sources of glutamates. When broken down, these ingredients release the same free glutamate molecules that are responsible for the umami flavor enhancement associated with MSG.
Common Ingredients Containing Natural Glutamates
To make an informed choice, it's essential to understand which ingredients can be sources of naturally occurring glutamates. Look for these terms on the nutrition label, as they will not be listed as "MSG" but can still provide the same effect:
- Yeast Extract
- Hydrolyzed Corn Protein
- Soy Protein Isolate
- Tomato Extract
- Natural Flavoring
Reading the Label: Beyond the Obvious
Food labeling laws allow manufacturers to claim "No Added MSG" even when products contain ingredients with naturally occurring glutamates. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) requires that if a label makes such a claim, any ingredients containing natural MSG must also be disclosed. This is why reviewing the full ingredient list is the most reliable method for those who wish to avoid all sources of free glutamates, regardless of their origin. For instance, a Progresso soup might list "yeast extract" or "hydrolyzed corn protein" as a flavor enhancer.
Historical Context: The Great "Soup Wars"
The 2008 "Soup Wars" between Progresso and Campbell's placed MSG firmly in the public spotlight. Campbell's ran ads for its Select Harvest soups, highlighting their MSG-free status while comparing unfavorably to Progresso's offerings at the time. In response, Progresso, owned by General Mills, announced a plan to reformulate 26 varieties without added MSG, eventually extending the change to its entire soup line. This competitive marketing push significantly influenced the brand's current "no added MSG" policy, not as a response to safety concerns but to meet consumer preference.
Is MSG Safe? Separating Fact from Fiction
Despite decades of controversy, extensive scientific research and regulatory bodies, including the FDA, have designated MSG as "Generally Recognized As Safe" (GRAS). The initial fears, stemming from a 1968 letter in a medical journal describing "Chinese restaurant syndrome," were based on poorly conducted research and have been largely debunked. For the vast majority of the population, moderate consumption of MSG in food is not known to cause adverse health effects. The International Headache Society even removed MSG from its list of triggers in 2018 due to a lack of evidence.
A Comparison of Progresso Soup Ingredients
To illustrate the difference in ingredient sourcing, here is a comparison of two popular Progresso soup varieties. This table highlights ingredients known to contain naturally occurring glutamates, demonstrating that even with "no added MSG," flavor enhancers are still present.
| Feature | Progresso Traditional 99% Fat Free Chicken Noodle | Progresso Vegetable Classics Vegetable |
|---|---|---|
| Added MSG? | No | No |
| Natural Glutamate Sources | Hydrolyzed vegetable protein, tomato extract | Yeast extract, hydrolyzed corn protein, tomato extract |
| Artificial Flavors/Colors? | No | No |
| Sodium Content | High (check label) | High (check label) |
| Vegetarian? | No | Yes |
Other Health Considerations in Canned Soup
While the focus on MSG has been significant, experts often point to other, more substantial health concerns in canned soups, most notably the high sodium content. A single can of soup can contribute a significant portion of a person's recommended daily sodium intake, which can be a risk factor for conditions like high blood pressure. Some canned soups have also faced scrutiny over the use of Bisphenol A (BPA) in can linings, though many manufacturers have shifted to alternative materials. A balanced diet should consider all ingredients, not just controversial additives. For more information on overall dietary health, you can consult resources like Harvard Health Publishing at www.health.harvard.edu/nutrition/monosodium-glutamate-msg-what-it-is-and-why-you-might-consider-avoiding-foods-that-contain-it.
Conclusion
In summary, Progresso soups do not contain added MSG. However, most varieties contain ingredients that are natural sources of glutamates, such as yeast extract and hydrolyzed proteins, which enhance the savory umami flavor. This practice is common in the food industry and considered safe by health authorities. Consumers who are sensitive to glutamates should make a habit of checking the full ingredient list on each can. Ultimately, reading labels for ingredients like yeast extract and monitoring sodium levels are more effective strategies for discerning the content of Progresso soups than relying solely on the "no added MSG" claim.
