Is There MSG in Gravy? Decoding the Savory Secret

Monosodium glutamate (MSG) is a flavor enhancer often added to many foods, including gravy, to amplify their savory taste. Recent studies show that more than 80% of processed foods include some type of flavor enhancer. But is there MSG in gravy, and how can one tell?

Quick Summary

The presence of MSG in gravy hinges on preparation; store-bought gravies frequently contain it, whereas homemade versions use ingredients like mushrooms and aged cheese for their natural glutamates.

Key Points

• Source Matters: The presence of MSG in gravy hinges on its source; processed, instant mixes, and many restaurant gravies contain added MSG, while homemade versions typically do not.

• Labeling is Key: When looking for added MSG, look for "monosodium glutamate" (E621) on labels. Remember that products can claim "No Added MSG" even if they contain other glutamate-rich ingredients like yeast extract.

• Embrace Natural Umami: Ingredients such as meat drippings, mushrooms, aged cheese, and tomato paste provide natural umami, allowing for a rich, savory homemade gravy without manufactured additives.

• Homemade is Best: Making gravy from scratch provides complete control over the ingredients, providing the most reliable way to avoid added MSG.

• Safety for Most: MSG is considered a safe food additive for the majority of people, but individuals with sensitivities should be careful about reading labels and understanding glutamate sources.

• Watch for Other Enhancers: Other flavor enhancers, such as disodium inosinate (E631) and disodium guanylate (E627), may also be present on ingredient lists, as they can boost savory flavor in conjunction with MSG.

The Role of MSG in Enhancing Gravy's Flavor

MSG, or monosodium glutamate, is a food additive celebrated for its ability to intensify the umami, or savory, flavor profile of dishes. Although it is often associated with Asian cuisine, MSG is globally used in many types of processed foods and in restaurants. When considering the presence of MSG in gravy, a key distinction must be made between free glutamates naturally occurring in foods and the concentrated, manufactured MSG added as an ingredient.

Glutamate is an amino acid and a fundamental building block of protein found in almost all natural foods, such as meat, fish, cheese, and vegetables. These glutamates become 'free' when they are not bound within a protein structure, which is what causes the umami taste.

MSG in Packaged and Instant Gravy

Processed gravies, like instant mixes and canned varieties, frequently contain added MSG. Manufacturers add this ingredient to enhance the flavor of mass-produced foods, which ensures a consistent and satisfying savory taste that might otherwise be missing. When reading the ingredient list on packaged gravy, “monosodium glutamate” might be listed directly. However, some labels might use different terms for ingredients that naturally contain high levels of glutamates, such as:

• Yeast extract
• Hydrolyzed vegetable protein
• Autolyzed yeast
• Hydrolyzed protein
• Soy extract

For example, Bisto gravy granules list both monosodium glutamate and disodium 5′-ribonucleotides (which have a synergistic flavor-enhancing effect with MSG) as flavor enhancers. Therefore, consumers wanting to avoid added MSG must carefully check food labels for these related ingredients.

Homemade Gravy and Natural Glutamates

Unlike their commercial counterparts, homemade gravies typically contain naturally occurring glutamates from whole ingredients, rather than concentrated additives. Umami-rich ingredients are frequently used to build deep, savory flavor from scratch. A traditional gravy made from roasted meat drippings already benefits from the natural glutamates released during the cooking process. Other natural ingredients that can be used to boost umami include:

• Mushrooms: Dried shiitake mushrooms, in particular, are an excellent source of natural umami.
• Tomato Paste: Concentrated tomatoes contain high levels of glutamates.
• Aged Cheeses: Parmesan cheese is famously high in natural glutamates and can be used to add a rich, savory depth.
• Fermented Sauces: Soy sauce, fish sauce, and Worcestershire sauce are all powerhouse sources of umami.

Home cooks can create rich, flavorful gravy without any added MSG by focusing on these ingredients. This allows for more control over the ingredients and the dish's overall flavor profile.

Understanding Gravy Labels and Identifying MSG

Reading food labels is crucial for anyone wanting to monitor their MSG intake. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) requires that when MSG is added as a direct ingredient, it must be listed as “monosodium glutamate”. However, the rules are different for naturally occurring glutamates. If an ingredient like yeast extract or hydrolyzed vegetable protein, which naturally contains free glutamates, is used, it does not have to be labeled as MSG. Food products cannot claim “No Added MSG” if they contain these ingredients.

This distinction is important because while some consumers may react to large quantities of concentrated MSG, there is little evidence to suggest that naturally occurring glutamates cause the same mild sensitivity in some individuals. Nevertheless, for those with sensitivities, reading labels carefully and avoiding ingredients known to be high in natural glutamates may be advisable.

A Comparison of Gravy Types and Their MSG Content

Feature	Homemade Gravy	Instant/Packaged Gravy	Restaurant Gravy
MSG Content	None added; contains naturally occurring glutamates from ingredients.	Often contains added monosodium glutamate (MSG) and related flavor enhancers.	May contain added MSG depending on the chef's recipe and restaurant policy.
Labeling	N/A (no label needed).	Required to list “monosodium glutamate” if added, but not for natural glutamates from other ingredients.	Not required to declare MSG content, so asking staff is the only way to know.
Flavor Source	Built from meat drippings, broths, and umami-rich vegetables/sauces.	Synthetic flavor enhancers and powdered ingredients for consistency.	Varies widely; can be made from scratch or from concentrates with added MSG.
Control	Full control over ingredients, sodium levels, and flavor intensity.	Little to no control over ingredients.	Little to no control over ingredients unless specifically requested.
Umami Boosters	Mushrooms, parmesan, tomato paste, soy sauce.	Added MSG (E621), ribonucleotides (E627, E631), yeast extract.	Varies widely, may use natural or added boosters.

Crafting Your Own Umami-Rich Gravy

Making gravy from scratch is the best option for those who prefer to avoid added MSG. A rich, flavorful sauce can be created by using high-quality ingredients and techniques. For example, a simple way to create a savory gravy is to deglaze the pan with a rich stock and incorporate umami-packed ingredients. A recipe for a delicious, naturally umami gravy might involve creating a mushroom-based powder substitute for MSG, as outlined in some recipes.

Here is a basic outline for a naturally umami-rich, MSG-free gravy:

1. Start with a flavorful base: Use the drippings from roasted meat. If unavailable, sauté onions, garlic, and mushrooms in butter until deeply browned.
2. Make a roux: Whisk flour into the fats in the pan to create a paste. Cook for a few minutes to remove the raw flour taste.
3. Add liquid: Slowly whisk in a high-quality broth (chicken, beef, or vegetable) to prevent lumps. A stock made from roasted bones will have a deeper flavor.
4. Incorporate umami boosters: Add a dash of soy sauce, a spoonful of tomato paste, or a sprinkle of nutritional yeast for extra depth. Some home cooks even experiment with creating their own 'natural MSG' powder from dried mushrooms and shrimp.
5. Simmer and season: Let the gravy simmer, allowing it to thicken and the flavors to meld. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

This approach ensures that every ingredient in the gravy is known, allowing the enjoyment of a delicious, savory sauce that is free of added monosodium glutamate.

Conclusion: Making Informed Gravy Choices

MSG is present in gravy, but the presence of monosodium glutamate depends entirely on whether it's a processed, store-bought product or a homemade sauce. Checking labels is vital for sensitive individuals, although health authorities such as the FDA classify MSG as "generally recognized as safe," and most people experience no adverse reactions. You can make an informed decision and enjoy a rich, flavorful gravy with meals by understanding the difference between added MSG and naturally occurring glutamates. The simplest way to control your MSG intake is to make your gravy from scratch, using whole food ingredients that naturally contribute umami.

For further reading on the history and use of monosodium glutamate, explore resources like this article from Harvard Health: Monosodium glutamate (MSG): What it is, and why you might consider avoiding foods that contain it.

How to Identify MSG on Gravy Labels

• Read the Ingredients: The most direct way to check for added MSG is to look for the term “monosodium glutamate” on the ingredients list.
• Recognize Related Ingredients: Be aware that ingredients like yeast extract, hydrolyzed vegetable protein, and soy extracts are naturally high in glutamates and may not be explicitly labeled as MSG.
• Be Skeptical of Claims: A “No Added MSG” claim on packaging can be misleading if the product contains other glutamate-rich ingredients.
• Check Restaurant Sourcing: For restaurant-made gravy, ask the staff about their ingredients, as restaurants are not required to disclose additives.
• Make Your Own: The only guaranteed way to avoid added MSG is to make your gravy from scratch using whole, natural ingredients.

What is the difference between MSG and natural glutamates?

• Chemical vs. Natural: MSG is a purified, manufactured version of glutamate, while natural glutamates are amino acids found in whole foods.
• Binding: Natural glutamates are often bound within protein, whereas the glutamate in MSG is free, which is thought to impact its effect on flavor perception.
• Concentration: Added MSG is a concentrated additive, often used in larger doses than the amount of free glutamate naturally found in a serving of food.

Does homemade gravy contain MSG?

• No added MSG: Homemade gravy does not have added MSG, but it will contain naturally occurring glutamates from ingredients like meat drippings, stocks, mushrooms, or cheese used to create a savory flavor profile.
• Natural Umami: The umami taste experienced in homemade gravy comes from these natural sources, not from a manufactured additive.

Are MSG-free gravies available in stores?

• Yes, some are: Certain brands explicitly advertise “MSG Free” or “No Added MSG” gravies, but you should still check the ingredients list to confirm that other glutamate-rich ingredients like yeast extract are not used instead.

What are the symptoms of MSG sensitivity?

• Mild and Transient: For a small percentage of the population sensitive to large doses of MSG, symptoms can be mild and temporary. They may include headache, flushing, sweating, and numbness.
• Individual Reactions: Most scientific studies have not been able to consistently confirm a link between MSG and these symptoms in controlled settings.

Can you reduce the sodium in gravy by using MSG?

• Potentially: MSG contains only about one-third the amount of sodium as table salt by mass. By replacing some salt with MSG, manufacturers and home cooks can reduce the overall sodium content while maintaining a savory flavor, although this is more relevant for those who choose to use MSG.

Is MSG safe to eat?

• Generally Recognized as Safe: Leading health organizations like the FDA and JECFA consider MSG safe for the general population when consumed in normal amounts. Concerns about adverse reactions are often linked to larger doses or based on flawed research.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is MSG in all store-bought gravies?

No, MSG is not in all store-bought gravies, but it is a very common ingredient in many instant mixes, canned gravies, and restaurant sauces. Checking the ingredient label is necessary.

How can I make a flavorful gravy without adding MSG?

For a savory gravy without added MSG, depend on whole ingredients rich in natural glutamates. Use roasted meat drippings, cook with mushrooms, add tomato paste, or incorporate a splash of soy sauce.

What is the difference between added MSG and naturally occurring glutamates?

The glutamate in MSG is chemically identical to the glutamate found naturally in foods. The primary difference is that MSG is a concentrated, pure additive, whereas natural glutamates come from whole foods like cheese and tomatoes.

Does gravy from a fast-food restaurant contain MSG?

It is very likely that gravy from a fast-food or chain restaurant contains MSG, as it is a common way for restaurants to enhance and standardize flavor. Since restaurants are not required to list ingredients, the only way to know for sure is to ask the staff.

Are there any alternative names for MSG on ingredient lists?

Yes. Look out for ingredients that contain naturally occurring glutamates, which function similarly to MSG, including yeast extract, autolyzed yeast, hydrolyzed vegetable protein (HVP), and soy extracts.

Can I use MSG to make homemade gravy?

Yes, you can use MSG as a seasoning to enhance the savory flavor of your homemade gravy. It is often used in small amounts, and some chefs believe it can help reduce the overall sodium content while boosting umami.

What does an 'MSG Free' label on gravy mean?

An 'MSG Free' or 'No Added MSG' label means that the manufacturer has not added monosodium glutamate directly to the product. However, it does not guarantee the product is free of naturally occurring glutamates from other ingredients, so it is important to read the full ingredients list.