Is There MSG in Knorr? A Look at Bouillon Ingredients

December 11, 2025 •

2 min read

Over 600 Knorr bouillon cubes are sold every second globally. This immense popularity has led many to question: is there MSG in Knorr products, and is it a cause for concern? The answer is more complex than a simple yes or no, as ingredients vary significantly by product and region.

Quick Summary

This article examines the presence of MSG in Knorr products, explaining that while many older or standard versions contain added monosodium glutamate, some newer, natural, or regional products are formulated without it. We delve into how to identify MSG on labels, common product variations, and the broader context of MSG's use as a flavor enhancer.

Key Points

Check the Label: The presence of MSG in Knorr products is not universal; consumers must read the ingredients list for each specific product.
Product Variations: Knorr offers a mix of products, with some classic varieties containing added MSG and newer lines being explicitly labeled 'no added MSG'.
Natural Glutamates: Even products without added MSG may contain ingredients naturally rich in glutamate, such as yeast extract.
Health & Safety: MSG is classified as 'Generally Recognized as Safe' by the FDA, with adverse reactions largely unproven in scientific studies and typically mild for sensitive individuals.
Umami Flavor: MSG is used as a flavor enhancer to provide the savory, umami taste, but some 'no added MSG' products achieve this flavor through other means.
Global Differences: Knorr's ingredient formulations can vary significantly by country and market, so a product in one region may differ from the same product elsewhere.

Knorr Bouillons: The Simple Answer for Common Varieties

Many widely sold Knorr bouillon products, especially in North and Latin America, list Monosodium Glutamate (MSG) as an ingredient to enhance savory flavor. MSG is a common additive in processed foods.

Natural Glutamates vs. Added MSG

MSG contains glutamate, an amino acid found naturally in many foods used in seasonings, like tomatoes, cheese, mushrooms, and yeast extract. Understanding MSG in Knorr involves differentiating between this natural glutamate and intentionally added MSG.

Knorr's Shift Towards 'No Added MSG' Products

Responding to consumer demand, Knorr offers many products labeled 'no added MSG'. These often use ingredients naturally high in glutamate, such as yeast extract, for umami flavor. Knorr's 'Natural' range in some markets is an example. The company confirms that if MSG is intentionally added, it will be listed as 'monosodium glutamate'.

A Comparison of Knorr Bouillon Products

Here is a comparison of two Knorr products regarding MSG content.


Feature	Knorr Chicken Flavor Bouillon (Standard)	Knorr Chicken Seasoning Powder (No Added MSG)
Added MSG?	Yes, listed as Monosodium Glutamate	No, explicitly labeled 'No Added MSG'
Primary Flavor	Rich, savory, meaty	Well-balanced chicken umami
Umami Source	Added Monosodium Glutamate (E621)	Real chicken meat, other seasonings
Other Flavor Enhancers	Disodium inosinate, disodium guanylate	Spices, herbs
Target Market	Broad, traditional product	Market segments avoiding added MSG

How to Identify MSG on Knorr Product Labels

To avoid MSG, carefully read labels. Besides 'Monosodium Glutamate,' look for ingredients that contain high levels of free glutamate and act as flavor enhancers.

Monosodium Glutamate: Directly indicates added MSG.
Hydrolyzed Vegetable Protein (HVP): Contains glutamate from broken-down vegetable proteins.
Yeast Extract: A source of naturally occurring glutamate and a flavor enhancer.
Autolyzed Yeast: Similar to yeast extract, it provides naturally derived glutamate.

The Broader Context of MSG and Health

MSG was historically linked to 'Chinese Restaurant Syndrome' symptoms. However, the FDA classifies MSG as “Generally Recognized as Safe” (GRAS). Studies haven't consistently proven a link between normal MSG consumption and adverse health effects in most people. The FDA notes that reported symptoms are usually mild and temporary, mainly in sensitive individuals consuming large amounts on an empty stomach. For most, MSG is a safe global food additive.

The Verdict: Reading the Label is Key

The presence of MSG in Knorr depends on the specific product and region. Many classic Knorr products contain added MSG, clearly listed on labels. Knorr also offers 'no added MSG' products using natural enhancers like yeast extract. Checking the label for monosodium glutamate is crucial for consumers. Regulatory bodies like the FDA affirm MSG's safety, making the choice to consume it a matter of personal preference or sensitivity, not a widespread health risk.

Conclusion Determining if there's MSG in Knorr requires checking the specific product. Many traditional Knorr items contain added MSG, while newer lines are explicitly 'no added MSG.' Consumers should read ingredient lists for monosodium glutamate or glutamate-rich components like yeast extract to make informed dietary choices.

Frequently Asked Questions

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) classifies MSG as 'Generally Recognized as Safe' (GRAS). While some people report mild symptoms after consumption, scientific studies have not consistently found evidence of adverse health effects in the general population from typical amounts of MSG.

Chemically, the glutamate in added MSG is indistinguishable from the glutamate that occurs naturally in foods like tomatoes or cheese. The body metabolizes both in the same way, and both provide the umami flavor.

The easiest way is to check the ingredients list on the product packaging. If MSG is intentionally added, it must be listed as 'monosodium glutamate'. Keep in mind that some products may still contain naturally occurring glutamate from ingredients like yeast extract.

Yes, Knorr does offer products specifically formulated and labeled as having 'no added MSG'. These items cater to consumers who prefer to avoid the additive and often rely on natural alternatives like yeast extract for flavor.

No, not all Knorr bouillon cubes contain added MSG. While many standard cubes have it, Knorr has introduced 'no added MSG' versions in certain markets and product lines, so it's important to read the label.

MSG is a flavor enhancer used to intensify the savory, umami flavor of foods. It is a cost-effective way to boost taste, especially in processed and convenience foods like soups, snacks, and seasonings.

Besides 'monosodium glutamate,' look for ingredients like hydrolyzed vegetable protein, yeast extract, and autolyzed yeast. These contain naturally occurring glutamate and are used for their flavor-enhancing properties.