Tag: Msg myth

According to a 2019 review, while a large body of anecdotal reports exists, there is not enough solid evidence to confirm that a widespread MSG hypersensitivity truly exists. This fact counters decades of misinformation about the savory food additive, but it doesn't dismiss the very real symptoms that some individuals experience after consumption. The scientific community continues to clarify what is known about 'MSG symptom complex,' revealing that documented cases of genuine reactions are much less common than perceived sensitivities might suggest.

In 1968, a letter published in the *New England Journal of Medicine* sparked a decades-long panic known as "Chinese Restaurant Syndrome," linking MSG in Chinese food to various symptoms. This single anecdotal report, now widely debunked, created a lasting myth that over-emphasizes the use of MSG in Chinese cuisine while ignoring its prevalence elsewhere.

Over the decades, reports of adverse reactions to monosodium glutamate (MSG) have led to its widespread misconception as an unhealthy additive. However, major scientific and regulatory bodies, including the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), classify MSG as 'generally recognized as safe' (GRAS) for the majority of the population. The real reasons why shouldn't we use MSG often relate to the processed foods it's found in, not the additive itself.

While Korean cuisine is defined by its deep, savory flavors, it's a misconception that MSG is the sole source. The truth is more nuanced, involving a shift from industrial additives toward a deeper appreciation for naturally occurring umami, though some processed products still contain it.

While traditional Chinese cuisine is renowned for its emphasis on balance, fresh vegetables, and lean proteins, many people question if Chinese food is actually healthy. The answer lies in distinguishing between traditional cooking methods and ingredients versus the high-fat, high-sodium preparations common in Western takeout restaurants.

According to regulatory bodies like the FDA, MSG is “generally recognized as safe” for consumption by the general population. This contrasts sharply with its controversial reputation, raising the question: **What is unsafe about MSG** and why is its safety so widely debated?