What brand of sausage does not have MSG?

December 14, 2025 •

4 min read

According to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), MSG is a 'Generally Recognized As Safe' (GRAS) food additive, yet some individuals prefer to avoid it for personal dietary reasons or sensitivities. This has led to a growing demand for transparency in food labeling, especially concerning common processed items like sausage.

Quick Summary

Several brands offer naturally flavorful sausages with clean ingredient lists free of added monosodium glutamate. Understanding how to decipher food labels is crucial for identifying not only explicit MSG but also ingredients that are sources of concentrated free glutamates.

Key Points

Jones Dairy Farm: Explicitly states and commits to producing sausages free of added MSG.
Applegate Naturals: A reliable brand for finding natural and organic sausages typically made without MSG.
Label Reading is Key: Look for terms like 'Monosodium Glutamate', 'Yeast Extract', or 'Hydrolyzed Vegetable Protein'.
Teton Waters Ranch: Offers grass-fed beef sausage options that are MSG-free.
Canter Hill Farm: Provides ethically-raised, natural sausages, including MSG-free bratwurst and franks.
Some Brands Vary: Brands like Johnsonville have some MSG-free products, so it's essential to check the label for each specific item.

Navigating the Search for MSG-Free Sausage

Finding sausage that does not contain MSG can be a challenge in today's processed food market. Monosodium glutamate, or MSG, is a flavor enhancer used to give a savory, or umami, taste to many foods, including processed meats. While it's derived from glutamic acid, a naturally occurring amino acid, some people report sensitivities to concentrated, added MSG, making it a priority to find alternatives. The key is knowing which brands prioritize simple, clean ingredients and how to interpret ingredient lists for potential hidden MSG sources.

Brands That Do Not Add MSG to Their Sausages

Fortunately, a number of reputable brands offer high-quality sausages free from added MSG. These companies often focus on using natural ingredients and simple recipes to achieve a rich and savory flavor profile.

Jones Dairy Farm

Jones Dairy Farm is a long-standing brand committed to using simple ingredients. They state explicitly on their website that none of their products, including their breakfast sausage, contain MSG or nitrates. They are a reliable choice for anyone seeking a clean-label sausage.

Applegate Naturals

Applegate is known for its natural and organic meat products. Many of their sausages, such as the Natural Chicken & Maple Breakfast Sausage and others in their 'Natural' line, are made without MSG, antibiotics, or hormones. Always check the specific product label to confirm, but this brand is a strong contender for MSG-free options.

Teton Waters Ranch

Teton Waters Ranch offers sausages made from 100% grass-fed beef. Their products are made with clean, simple ingredients and are free of MSG and other additives, catering to those who prefer high-quality, minimally processed meat.

Aidells Sausage Company

Aidells offers a wide variety of chicken and other sausages, and many of their products are free of added MSG. Their focus on unique and natural flavors allows them to avoid reliance on artificial enhancers.

Canter Hill Farm

For those seeking ethically-raised, quality meat, Canter Hill Farm offers MSG-free options for their bratwurst and other sausage products. They focus on natural and wholesome ingredients.

Johnsonville (Select Products)

While many Johnsonville products contain additives, some, like their Smoked Andouille Pork Sausage Link, are listed as being MSG-free. It is crucial to read the specific label for each product variant, as their ingredient lists can vary significantly.

Amylu Sausages

Amylu produces a range of chicken sausages often highlighted for their clean ingredients and flavor. They are often a top recommendation in health-focused taste tests and offer numerous MSG-free options.

Continental Sausage

Continental Sausage, which offers a Smoked German Style Bratwurst, specifically advertises its products as being all-natural and containing no MSG.

How to Read Labels for Hidden MSG and Related Ingredients

Reading the ingredient label carefully is the most reliable method for ensuring your sausage is MSG-free. While direct MSG labeling is clear, some ingredients contain concentrated free glutamates, which function similarly and should be avoided by sensitive individuals.

Look for obvious MSG: The label will clearly state 'Monosodium Glutamate' or 'MSG'.
Watch for hidden glutamate sources: Be cautious of ingredients that are high in concentrated free glutamates, such as:
- Hydrolyzed Vegetable Protein (HVP)
- Yeast Extract or Autolyzed Yeast
- Soy Extracts
Choose 'No MSG Added' products: While the FDA requires direct MSG to be labeled, this claim is still a useful indicator that the manufacturer has not intentionally added the additive.

Comparison of Sausage Brands


Brand	MSG-Free Status (Added MSG)	Labeling Consideration	Product Type	Key Feature
Jones Dairy Farm	Yes	Explicitly labeled 'no MSG'	Breakfast Sausage, Links	Simple, clean ingredients
Applegate Naturals	Yes	Often labeled 'Natural' or 'Organic', check specific label	Chicken, Pork, Turkey	Focus on natural and organic meats
Johnsonville	Check Label	Some products contain MSG, some are MSG-free	Andouille, Brats, Breakfast	Wide variety, must check each label
Continental Sausage	Yes	Advertised as All-Natural, No MSG	German Bratwurst	All-natural ingredients
Generic Store Brand	Uncertain	Often contains 'Yeast Extract' or 'Natural Flavors'	Various	Requires careful label inspection
Canter Hill Farm	Yes	Focuses on wholesome, MSG-free ingredients	Bratwurst, Franks	Ethically-raised poultry and pork

Conclusion

Finding a brand of sausage that does not contain MSG is entirely possible by becoming a discerning shopper. Many brands have recognized the consumer demand for healthier, cleaner-label products and have responded by eliminating the additive. Brands like Jones Dairy Farm, Applegate, Teton Waters Ranch, and Aidells are excellent places to start. The most important step is always to read the ingredient list carefully, looking out for MSG itself and potential hidden sources like yeast extract or hydrolyzed proteins. Making informed choices ensures you can enjoy a delicious sausage while adhering to your dietary preferences. Food Standards Australia New Zealand on MSG Labeling

Frequently Asked Questions

Some individuals report sensitivity to concentrated, added MSG, with reported symptoms including headaches, flushing, and sweating. While the FDA considers it safe, many people prefer to avoid it for personal dietary reasons.

No. The human body processes MSG from concentrated additives and natural sources (like tomatoes or cheese) in the same way. However, some sensitive individuals may react differently to the high concentration of added MSG compared to the lower levels found naturally in whole foods.

Yes. While direct MSG must be labeled, some ingredients contain concentrated free glutamates and may function similarly for sensitive individuals. Common examples include yeast extract, hydrolyzed vegetable protein, and sometimes non-specific 'natural flavors'.

Not necessarily. While many organic brands use simpler ingredients and avoid additives, it is not guaranteed. It is always best to check the specific ingredient list, even on products labeled organic.

The most effective method is to carefully read the ingredients list on the packaging. Look for brands known for clean labels, like Jones Dairy Farm and Applegate, and check for the phrases 'No MSG added' or 'MSG-Free'.

Yes, meat naturally contains glutamate, which is an amino acid. The concern is with concentrated, added MSG, not the naturally occurring glutamate found in the meat itself.

Yes, making your own sausage at home gives you complete control over the ingredients, ensuring no MSG or other unwanted additives are included.