The 'No Added MSG' Promise
Swanson, a well-known brand for broths and stocks, states on its packaging and website that its products are made with "no added MSG". This phrasing is crucial for consumers to understand. It means that the company does not intentionally add monosodium glutamate, a specific chemical compound, during the manufacturing process. For many individuals sensitive to added MSG, this assurance is enough. For others seeking to avoid all sources of free glutamates, a deeper look at the ingredient list is necessary.
The key ingredient that raises questions is yeast extract. Swanson's FAQ and ingredient lists confirm the use of yeast extract in many of its broth products. This ingredient is a natural flavor enhancer derived from yeast. The fermentation process naturally concentrates the glutamic acid in the yeast, resulting in a savory, umami flavor. The FDA requires that products containing added MSG be labeled as such, but naturally occurring free glutamates, such as those in yeast extract, are not required to be labeled as MSG. This distinction is what leads to much of the consumer confusion.
Decoding the Swanson Label
When examining a carton of Swanson broth, pay close attention to the ingredient list to determine if it contains yeast extract. For instance, the ingredient list for the standard Swanson Chicken Broth includes "Chicken Stock, Salt, Natural Flavoring, Mirepoix (Carrots, Celery, Onions), Chicken Fat, Yeast Extract". In this product, the yeast extract is the source of naturally occurring glutamate. In contrast, international versions may have different formulations. For example, some non-U.S. products have explicitly listed monosodium glutamate. Always verify the specific product you are purchasing.
Key Ingredients and Additives
Beyond yeast extract, it's also important to be aware of other ingredients that can contain naturally occurring glutamates. These include:
- Hydrolyzed protein (vegetable or soy)
- Soy sauce
- Maltodextrin
- Certain natural flavorings
While Swanson avoids listing many of these on its primary product lines, the inclusion of "natural flavoring" can sometimes be a red flag for those seeking a completely glutamate-free product. For most consumers, the natural occurrence of glutamates is not an issue, but for individuals with specific sensitivities, scrutinizing the label is the best practice.
Comparison of Swanson Chicken Broth Varieties
| Broth Variety | Added MSG | Yeast Extract | Naturally Occurring Glutamate | Other Notable Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Standard Chicken Broth | No | Yes | Yes (from yeast extract) | Contains 860mg sodium per serving |
| Organic Chicken Broth | No | No | No | Organic and 100% natural ingredients |
| Unsalted Chicken Broth | No | Yes | Yes (from yeast extract) | Very low sodium (35mg/serving) |
| 33% Less Sodium Broth | No | Yes | Yes (from yeast extract) | Less sodium than regular broth |
The Difference Between Added MSG and Natural Glutamates
From a chemical standpoint, the glutamic acid molecule found in added MSG is identical to the one found naturally in ingredients like yeast extract, tomatoes, and cheese. The primary difference is the concentration and the method of delivery. Added MSG is a concentrated, isolated form, while natural glutamates are part of a whole food matrix and are released during digestion. Most people do not experience any adverse effects from naturally occurring glutamates, and the health effects of added MSG are a topic of ongoing debate. For those concerned about sensitivities, understanding the source is key.
Creating Truly MSG-Free Broth at Home
For absolute control over ingredients and to ensure a broth is completely free of any added or naturally concentrated glutamates, making your own at home is the most reliable option. A simple homemade recipe can include chicken bones, fresh vegetables like carrots and celery, and herbs. By controlling the ingredients, you eliminate any hidden sources of glutamates. Homemade broth also allows you to adjust the sodium and flavor profile to your personal preference without relying on processed additives.
Conclusion
In summary, Swanson chicken broth is not made with added MSG. This claim holds true across its various products. However, many of its broths contain yeast extract, which is a source of naturally occurring free glutamate. For most consumers, this distinction is not a concern, but for those with specific sensitivities, reading the ingredient list for yeast extract is crucial. If you want to avoid all free glutamates, opting for the organic version that doesn't list yeast extract, or making your own broth from scratch, is the best route. The "no added MSG" label is an accurate statement, but it doesn't always tell the whole story about naturally present flavor enhancers. The presence of yeast extract in many Swanson broths means they are not entirely free of all naturally occurring glutamates, despite the absence of added MSG.
