The 'No Added MSG' Claim Explained
Many consumers turn to packaged broths for convenience but are wary of artificial additives like MSG. Swanson, a well-known brand, explicitly states that they do not add monosodium glutamate to their broths. However, a quick look at the ingredients list reveals the presence of "yeast extract" and "natural flavoring". This is where the nuance comes in.
Monosodium glutamate is a synthesized product, while glutamate is an amino acid that occurs naturally in many foods, including tomatoes, parmesan cheese, and, importantly, yeast extract. Yeast extract is created by breaking down yeast cells and is used to add a savory, or umami, flavor to foods. Because it contains naturally occurring free glutamate, it functions similarly to MSG in boosting flavor.
For most people, consuming glutamate, whether from added MSG or natural sources like yeast extract, is harmless. The human body metabolizes both in the same way. However, some individuals with a sensitivity to free glutamate may experience reactions regardless of its source. The key takeaway is that 'no added MSG' does not mean 'no naturally occurring glutamate'.
Deconstructing the Swanson Beef Broth Label
To fully understand the product, let's examine a typical Swanson beef broth ingredients list based on public information:
- Beef Stock
- Salt
- Natural Flavoring
- Yeast Extract
- Mirepoix (Carrots, Celery, Onions)
- Cane Sugar
Natural Flavoring: The FDA's definition of "natural flavor" is broad and includes extracts derived from natural sources like vegetables or meat. These can be complex mixtures that may contain flavor-enhancing compounds, including glutamates, processed from these natural ingredients. In some products, the use of "natural flavors" is a way to include flavor boosters without explicitly labeling them.
Yeast Extract: This is a potent source of natural umami flavor and naturally occurring glutamate. It is a very common ingredient in many processed foods, not just broths. It adds a deep, savory complexity that would otherwise be missing without the addition of synthetic MSG.
The Umami Factor: Different Types of Glutamate
Monosodium glutamate (MSG) is a specific salt of glutamic acid, an amino acid found in countless protein-rich foods. Its primary function is to trigger the umami taste receptor. This can lead to confusion for consumers who associate 'MSG' with negative health effects while being unaware of naturally occurring glutamate in other food sources. The following table helps clarify the differences.
| Feature | Added Monosodium Glutamate (MSG) | Naturally Occurring Glutamate (e.g., from Yeast Extract) |
|---|---|---|
| Source | Synthetically produced salt of glutamic acid. | Naturally occurring amino acid found in plant and animal proteins. |
| Labeling | Must be listed as "Monosodium Glutamate" on the ingredients list. | May be listed under other names, such as "yeast extract" or "natural flavoring". |
| Function | Used as a pure flavor enhancer to boost umami. | Contributes to the overall flavor profile while naturally boosting umami. |
| Sodium | Contains sodium, but less than table salt. | Can contribute sodium, especially in concentrated forms like yeast extract. |
| Metabolism | The body processes and metabolizes it in the same way as naturally occurring glutamate. | Digested and processed by the body in the same way as added MSG. |
Alternative Flavor Enhancers and Homemade Options
If you are committed to avoiding both added MSG and its natural counterparts like yeast extract, you have several alternatives. Making your own broth from scratch gives you complete control over the ingredients. For example, a slow-simmered beef stock using beef bones, vegetables, and herbs can provide a rich, deep flavor without relying on processed additives.
Other natural, glutamate-rich ingredients can also be used for flavor, including:
- Soy sauce
- Mushrooms
- Fermented foods like miso
- Tomato paste
- Aged parmesan cheese
Conclusion
While Swanson beef broth does not contain added MSG, it does include ingredients like yeast extract and natural flavorings that contain naturally occurring glutamate. This is the source of the product's savory, umami-rich flavor. For most consumers, this distinction is not a cause for concern, as the body processes both forms of glutamate identically. However, those with specific sensitivities or who wish to avoid all sources of concentrated free glutamate should be aware of this and read the ingredient list carefully. The most reliable way to control all ingredients is by making broth at home from whole food sources.
For more information on Swanson ingredients and company policy, you can visit the official Swanson FAQ page.
