No Added MSG, but Naturally Occurring Glutamates Remain
Many people are concerned about MSG, or monosodium glutamate, in their food and seek clear labeling to avoid it. Lawry's has made it clear on their packaging and in their marketing that their Original Seasoned Salt has "No MSG Added". This statement is a direct response to consumer demand for products free from this specific additive. The ingredient list for the classic blend includes salt, sugar, spices (including paprika and turmeric), onion, corn starch, garlic, and natural flavor. Noticeably absent is MSG itself. However, the presence of ingredients like 'spices,' 'onion,' and 'garlic,' and especially 'natural flavor,' can contribute to the umami taste profile without adding pure MSG.
What 'No MSG Added' Actually Means
When a food label says "No MSG Added," it means the manufacturer did not include the chemical compound MSG as a separate ingredient. The FDA requires that if MSG is added directly, it must be listed by its common name, monosodium glutamate. The label does not, however, mean that the product is free from glutamates entirely. Glutamate is an amino acid that occurs naturally in many foods. Foods such as tomatoes, mushrooms, cheeses, and soy sauce are high in natural glutamates and contribute to a savory, umami flavor. In Lawry's Seasoned Salt, the natural flavors, along with onion and garlic, likely provide some level of naturally occurring glutamates. For most people, this difference is negligible, but those with extreme sensitivities may wish to be aware of all ingredients.
Why Ingredients Like 'Natural Flavor' Matter
'Natural Flavor' is a broad term that can encompass a wide range of ingredients derived from natural sources, such as spices, fruits, vegetables, and yeast. The FDA defines natural flavor as something whose function in food is to impart flavor, not nutrition. Because some natural flavors and extracts, like yeast extract, are rich in naturally occurring glutamates, they can boost the savory taste of a product. While yeast extract is not a primary ingredient in Lawry's Original Seasoned Salt, the 'natural flavor' listed could include components high in these flavor-enhancing amino acids. It is this nuance that leads to some consumer confusion when a product tastes savory but doesn't list MSG.
Comparison of Seasoned Salt Ingredients
To further illustrate the distinction, a comparison table of Lawry's with other seasoning brands can be helpful. This table shows how different brands approach their ingredient labels and the use of MSG or other flavor enhancers.
| Feature | Lawry's Original Seasoned Salt | Accent Flavor Enhancer | Store Brand Seasoned Salt (Example) |
|---|---|---|---|
| MSG Listed? | No Added MSG | Yes, as 'Monosodium Glutamate' | Varies by brand; often includes 'MSG' or 'Monosodium Glutamate' |
| Other Glutamate Sources | Natural Flavor, Onion, Garlic | Contains primarily MSG | May contain yeast extract, autolyzed yeast, or others |
| Key Spices | Paprika, Turmeric, Celery Seed | None listed (primary purpose is MSG) | Varies widely, often similar to Lawry's blend |
| Primary Ingredients | Salt, Sugar | Monosodium Glutamate | Salt |
What to Look for on Labels
If you are vigilant about avoiding all forms of glutamate, not just added MSG, there are several ingredients to watch for on food labels besides 'monosodium glutamate.' These include:
- Hydrolyzed protein: Made by boiling proteins with acid or enzymes, which breaks them down into amino acids, including glutamate.
- Yeast extract or autolyzed yeast: These are often used as natural flavor enhancers because they are rich in glutamates.
- Soy protein isolate: A processed form of soy that can have high levels of glutamate.
- Disodium inosinate and disodium guanylate: These flavor enhancers are often used alongside ingredients containing glutamates to create a synergistic flavor effect.
By carefully reading the ingredients list and understanding what terms like 'natural flavor' can imply, consumers can make more informed choices about the products they purchase. While Lawry's is transparent about its lack of added MSG, the natural components in its signature blend provide a satisfying savory depth that many users appreciate.
The Role of Spices and Natural Flavors
Lawry's Seasoned Salt relies on a carefully balanced combination of spices, herbs, and natural flavors to achieve its unique and beloved taste. The combination of paprika, turmeric, onion, and garlic delivers a complex flavor profile that satisfies the palate without the need for additional MSG. The 'natural flavor' component likely includes vegetable or spice extracts that boost the overall umami effect, giving the seasoning a rich, savory character that keeps customers coming back for more. This method of flavor development is different from simply adding pure MSG, relying instead on a more traditional, blended approach. For those prioritizing whole ingredients, Lawry's blend is a reliable option, but it is not entirely free of all naturally occurring glutamates.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Lawry's Seasoned Salt is not MSG, but it is important to understand the nuance of its labeling. While it contains no added monosodium glutamate, its savory flavor is enhanced by naturally occurring glutamates present in its ingredients, such as natural flavor, onion, and garlic. This is an important distinction for consumers, particularly those with sensitivities, but for most, it means enjoying a rich, full-bodied flavor from a blend of well-known spices and herbs. By reading ingredient labels carefully, you can determine if a product meets your specific dietary needs and preferences. Ultimately, Lawry's relies on a time-tested spice blend to deliver its flavor, a practice that long predates modern flavor additives.
