Does Simply Doritos have MSG? A Look at the Ingredients

November 17, 2025 •

4 min read

Simply Doritos are marketed as having 'no artificial colors or flavors', but the presence of other flavor enhancers can cause confusion for health-conscious consumers. This article addresses the common question, 'Does Simply Doritos have MSG?' by examining the ingredients and clarifying the role of natural glutamates and yeast extract.

Quick Summary

Simply Doritos do not contain added monosodium glutamate (MSG) and are marketed as having no artificial flavors. The product instead uses yeast extract and natural flavors, which contain naturally occurring glutamates to provide an umami flavor enhancement.

Key Points

No Added MSG: Simply Doritos' packaging and ingredient lists confirm they do not contain added monosodium glutamate.
Yeast Extract is Used: Instead of MSG, Simply Doritos contain yeast extract, a natural flavor enhancer derived from yeast fermentation.
Yeast Extract Contains Natural Glutamates: Yeast extract provides a savory, umami flavor because it naturally contains glutamates, the same amino acids found in foods like cheese and tomatoes.
Not the Same as MSG: Yeast extract is a complex, natural ingredient, whereas MSG is a purified, concentrated additive.
Labeling Regulations Differ: The FDA does not require products with yeast extract to carry an MSG label, but explicitly added MSG must be listed.
Not a 'Health Food': Despite simpler ingredients, Simply Doritos are still an ultra-processed snack with notable sodium content.
Read the Label: Individuals with high glutamate sensitivity should still be cautious and read labels, as natural glutamates in yeast extract may cause a reaction.

Simply Doritos: No Added MSG, but What About Hidden Sources?

For years, consumers have been scrutinizing ingredient labels for monosodium glutamate (MSG), a flavor enhancer often associated with processed foods and certain negative health perceptions. The Frito-Lay "Simply" line was created to appeal to consumers seeking products with simpler ingredients and no artificial flavors or colors. This has led many to wonder if Simply Doritos, with their cleaner label, contain MSG.

The short and clear answer is that Simply Doritos do not contain added MSG. The product packaging explicitly makes this claim. However, the full story involves understanding ingredients like yeast extract and natural flavors, which provide a savory flavor boost through naturally occurring glutamates.

The Explicit Answer: No Added MSG

Frito-Lay's Simply line is built on the promise of fewer, more recognizable ingredients. This includes the absence of added monosodium glutamate. Under FDA regulations, any food containing added MSG must list it specifically as "monosodium glutamate" on the ingredient panel. A review of the ingredient lists for popular Simply Doritos flavors, such as White Cheddar and Zesty Cool Ranch, confirms that this explicit additive is not present. This provides assurance for those looking to avoid the specific additive, MSG.

Decoding the Ingredients: Yeast Extract and Natural Glutamates

While MSG is not an ingredient, Simply Doritos use other flavor enhancers to achieve their signature taste. One of the key ingredients listed is yeast extract. This is a natural, yeast-based ingredient used to enhance flavor and create a savory, or umami, taste.

Here’s what you need to know about yeast extract and glutamates:

Yeast extract is a natural byproduct of yeast fermentation.
It contains naturally occurring glutamates, which are the same amino acids found in other glutamate-rich foods like tomatoes, mushrooms, and cheese.
The FDA considers yeast extract a natural ingredient, not a flavor enhancing additive like MSG, and it does not need to be labeled as MSG.

Simply Doritos also list "Natural Flavors". This is a proprietary blend of ingredients derived from natural sources, which can also contain naturally occurring glutamates. However, manufacturers are not required to disclose the specific components unless they are a common allergen.

A Deeper Dive: How do natural glutamates in yeast extract differ from added MSG?


Feature	Yeast Extract	Monosodium Glutamate (MSG)
Origin	Natural byproduct of yeast fermentation.	Synthetically produced sodium salt of glutamic acid.
Composition	Complex mix of amino acids, peptides, and other compounds; contains ~5% natural glutamates.	Concentrated, pure substance composed of 100% sodium glutamate.
Flavor Impact	Adds a savory, umami flavor and depth to food, similar to a spice.	Enhances existing savory flavors without adding its own taste.
Labeling	Labeled as "yeast extract" or "natural flavor".	Must be explicitly listed as "monosodium glutamate".
Health Perception	Generally viewed more favorably due to its natural origin and complex composition.	Has a controversial reputation, though deemed safe by the FDA.

Are Simply Doritos a Healthy Option?

While the Simply line avoids artificial ingredients and added MSG, it is important to remember that these are still processed snack foods. The Environmental Working Group (EWG) has classified some Simply Doritos flavors as an "unhealthy ultra-processed food" due to factors like high sodium content and processing levels.

Consider the source: While the ingredients are simpler, the product is still manufactured and processed. A "natural" label doesn't always equate to "healthy".
Portion control: It's easy to overeat snack foods. High salt content can contribute to excessive sodium intake.
Other options: For a truly whole-food approach, alternatives like homemade tortilla chips are always an option. For a certified gluten-free option, the Simply Organic White Cheddar flavor is a safe choice, though others may have cross-contamination risk.

Conclusion: Deciphering the Fine Print

In conclusion, Simply Doritos do not have added MSG, which aligns with their brand marketing. They achieve their savory flavor profile by utilizing yeast extract, which naturally contains glutamates. For most consumers, this distinction is sufficient. However, for those with a high sensitivity to glutamates, even naturally occurring ones, reading the full ingredient list carefully is advisable. While a step towards a cleaner label, Simply Doritos remain a processed snack food, and mindful consumption is recommended. Ultimately, the decision comes down to understanding the nuances of food labeling and personal dietary needs.

List of ingredients in Simply Doritos White Cheddar flavor:

Whole Corn
Corn
Sunflower Oil
Buttermilk
Cheddar Cheese
Onion Powder
Natural Flavors
Tomato Powder
Whey
Yeast Extract
Sugar
Garlic Powder
Spices
Citric Acid

Frequently Asked Questions

Only the Simply Organic White Cheddar flavor is officially labeled and tested as gluten-free by Frito-Lay. Other flavors may have ingredients free of gluten but carry a risk of cross-contamination due to manufacturing processes.

MSG is a singular, processed food additive, while yeast extract is a complex, natural ingredient derived from yeast fermentation. Yeast extract contains naturally occurring glutamates, whereas MSG is a concentrated form of sodium glutamate.

Manufacturers use yeast extract to add a savory umami flavor to products. It is seen as a more natural alternative to MSG, appealing to consumers concerned about food additives, and it allows for a 'no added MSG' claim on the label.

A small percentage of the population sensitive to glutamates may experience mild symptoms from high levels of naturally occurring glutamates in yeast extract. However, most people do not react to the lower concentrations found in yeast extract compared to pure MSG.

Yes, classic Doritos flavors like Nacho Cheese explicitly list monosodium glutamate (MSG) in their ingredients.

No. Yeast extract is rich in nutrients and generally considered safe for consumption. Its savory flavor can also help reduce the overall sodium content in food. However, it is an ingredient in processed foods, which should be consumed in moderation.

According to the FDA, 'natural flavors' are flavorings derived from natural sources, which can include fruits, vegetables, spices, or yeast. It's a proprietary blend and does not need to be specified unless it contains a common allergen. In Simply Doritos, natural flavors likely contribute to the umami taste.