What Chicken Broth is MSG Free?

According to the FDA, monosodium glutamate (MSG) is generally recognized as safe, but many individuals still prefer to avoid it. For those navigating grocery store aisles, knowing what chicken broth is MSG free can be a challenge, requiring careful label reading to avoid both direct and hidden sources of this flavor enhancer.

Quick Summary

This guide provides a list of MSG-free chicken broth brands, explains how to identify natural and hidden sources of glutamate on ingredient lists, offers a simple homemade recipe, and outlines key differences between broth, stock, and bone broth. It also includes a comparison table to aid in making informed purchasing decisions.

Key Points

• Hidden MSG: MSG can be listed under alternative names like yeast extract, hydrolyzed vegetable protein, and soy extracts, even on products labeled 'no added MSG'.

• Homemade is Safest: The most effective way to ensure your chicken broth is completely MSG-free is to make it yourself from scratch.

• Organic Brands are a Good Start: Several organic brands, including Swanson, Imagine, and Pacific Foods, offer products that do not contain added MSG.

• Know the Difference: While broth is made with meat, bone broth is simmered with bones for a much longer time to extract more nutrients like collagen, making it a richer and healthier choice.

• Read Labels Carefully: Always scrutinize the ingredient list for hidden sources of free glutamate, as product formulations can change over time.

• Low Sodium Doesn't Guarantee No MSG: Some low-sodium broths may omit MSG, but this is not a universal rule, so checking the label is still essential.

• Natural Umami Boosters: Ingredients like mushrooms and tomatoes naturally contain glutamate and can be added to homemade broth for a flavor boost without synthetic MSG.

Navigating the Label: What is MSG and How is it Hidden?

Monosodium glutamate, or MSG, is the sodium salt of glutamic acid, an amino acid found naturally in many foods like tomatoes and cheese. While it has a long history of use for enhancing savory, or umami, flavors, some people report mild, short-term reactions after consuming it. This has led to a rise in demand for products without added MSG.

However, finding what chicken broth is MSG free can be complicated because MSG can hide under several other names on an ingredient list. The FDA requires that 'monosodium glutamate' be listed by its common name, but ingredients that naturally contain MSG, like autolyzed yeast extract, hydrolyzed vegetable protein, and soy extracts, do not have the same requirement. This means that a product can contain naturally occurring free glutamate from an ingredient like yeast extract, even if the label claims 'no added MSG'. Learning to recognize these alternative names is crucial for those who wish to avoid all forms of added glutamate.

Store-Bought Brands That Claim to Be MSG-Free

Fortunately, several brands offer MSG-free options, often in their organic or low-sodium lines. Here are some examples to look for on your next shopping trip:

• Swanson® Organic Free-Range Chicken Broth: This product uses only natural ingredients and explicitly states it has no added MSG, artificial flavors, or preservatives. Their low-sodium organic version is also a great option.
• Imagine® Organic Free Range Chicken Broth: This brand prides itself on using organic free-range chicken and fresh vegetables. It contains no added MSG, artificial flavors, chemicals, or preservatives, and is also paleo-friendly.
• Pacific Foods® Organic Free Range Chicken Broth: A USDA Certified Organic option made with non-GMO ingredients, this broth is slow-simmered and free of gluten and fat. They also state it has no added MSG.

When purchasing, it is important to double-check the labels, as formulations can change over time. Low-sodium broths can also be a good place to start, as some brands remove MSG from these recipes to compensate for the reduction in salt.

The Safest Bet: Homemade MSG-Free Chicken Broth

The only surefire way to know exactly what is in your broth is to make it yourself. Homemade chicken broth is a simple and rewarding process that ensures no hidden additives or flavor enhancers find their way into your final product. Here is a basic recipe to get started:

1. Place a whole chicken carcass (or a mix of bones, skin, and meat scraps), chopped carrots, celery, and onion, and whole peppercorns into a large stock pot.
2. Cover the ingredients completely with cold water, filling the pot to within a couple of inches of the top.
3. Bring the water to a simmer over high heat, then reduce the heat to low. Skim any foam or scum that rises to the surface.
4. Cover and simmer for at least 3 hours, or up to 6-8 hours for a richer flavor.
5. Once cooked, strain the broth through a fine-mesh sieve, discarding the solids.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste before storing in the refrigerator or freezer.

Beyond Broth: The Difference Between Broth and Stock

When considering your options, it's helpful to understand the distinction between broth, stock, and bone broth.

• Broth: Generally made with chicken meat, vegetables, and seasonings simmered for a shorter time (around 1-2 hours). It tends to be lighter in flavor and mouthfeel.
• Stock: Primarily uses bones and vegetable scraps, often simmered for a longer duration than broth. It's typically richer and more flavorful.
• Bone Broth: Considered the most nutrient-dense of the three. It is made by simmering bones with connective tissue and meat for a very long time (16-48 hours). This process extracts more collagen, minerals, and amino acids, resulting in a rich, gelatinous liquid. If you're looking for a homemade, nutrient-packed, and naturally MSG-free option, bone broth is an excellent choice.

Comparison Table: MSG-Free Broth Options

Feature	Swanson® Organic	Imagine® Organic	Pacific Foods® Organic	Homemade Broth
Added MSG	No	No	No	No
Hidden Glutamates	Likely contains yeast extract	Likely contains yeast extract	Likely contains yeast extract	No
USDA Organic	Yes	Yes	Yes	Dependent on ingredients
Ingredients	Natural ingredients	Free-range chicken, vegetables	Free-range chicken, sea salt, seasonings	Fully customizable
Sodium	Moderately salty	Low sodium option available	Moderate sodium	Fully adjustable
Best For	Convenient, reliably MSG-free	High-quality organic option	High-quality organic option	Complete control over ingredients

Conclusion

While many store-bought options claim to be MSG-free, careful label scrutiny is still necessary due to ingredients like yeast extract and hydrolyzed proteins that naturally contain glutamate. Brands like Swanson Organic, Imagine Organic, and Pacific Foods Organic provide reliable choices for those seeking products without added MSG. For complete peace of mind and maximum nutritional benefits, especially regarding collagen and minerals, making your own homemade chicken broth or bone broth is the superior option. By understanding the differences and reading labels diligently, you can find the best MSG-free chicken broth for your needs.

Here is a link to the FDA's information on MSG for additional authoritative context: Questions and Answers on Monosodium glutamate (MSG) - FDA

Frequently Asked Questions

What are some alternative names for MSG on food labels?

MSG can be listed as 'monosodium glutamate' or by its food additive code (E621). However, it can also be found in ingredients that naturally contain free glutamate, such as yeast extract, hydrolyzed vegetable protein, autolyzed yeast, and soy extracts.

Is yeast extract the same as MSG?

Yeast extract is not chemically identical to MSG, but it is a concentrated source of free glutamate, the same compound that gives MSG its umami flavor. The FDA does not require a label to specify that yeast extract naturally contains MSG.

How can I make my own MSG-free chicken broth at home?

To make MSG-free chicken broth, simply simmer a chicken carcass or bones with water, chopped vegetables like carrots, celery, and onion, and herbs for several hours. This allows you to control all ingredients and avoid any additives.

Is all organic chicken broth automatically MSG-free?

No, organic labeling does not guarantee a product is free of added MSG. While many organic brands choose to exclude it, some may still use natural sources of glutamate. Always read the ingredient list to be certain.

Does choosing low-sodium chicken broth ensure it is MSG-free?

Not necessarily. While some brands remove MSG from their low-sodium versions, this is not a standard practice. You must still examine the ingredient list for 'monosodium glutamate' and hidden sources.

What is the difference between chicken broth and bone broth regarding MSG?

Both can be made without added MSG. However, bone broth is typically simmered much longer, extracting more collagen and nutrients from the bones, which results in a richer, naturally flavorful liquid without needing flavor enhancers.

Can I use chicken broth substitutes that are also MSG-free?

Yes, alternatives like vegetable broth (homemade or store-bought checked for additives), or even simple water with your own spices, can be used as a substitute. Be sure to check store-bought versions for hidden glutamates.