The Difference: Natural Glutamate vs. Added MSG
To understand which meat has MSG in it, it's crucial to differentiate between two forms of the flavor compound: naturally occurring glutamate and added monosodium glutamate (MSG). Glutamate is an amino acid and a fundamental building block of protein, present in many foods including fresh meat. This natural glutamate contributes to the savory, or umami, flavor. Added MSG is a manufactured sodium salt of glutamic acid, used as a food additive to intensify that same savory taste profile. The human body processes both forms of glutamate in the same way, but the distinction is important for those who prefer to avoid food additives.
Processed Meats with Added MSG
When it comes to meat products with added MSG, you need to look beyond the fresh meat counter. The additive is primarily used in processed items to enhance flavor, especially in lower-sodium or low-fat versions where some flavor might be lost.
Sausages and Cured Meats
This category is one of the most common sources of added MSG. Many manufacturers use it in their seasoning blends to improve the overall taste and texture of the meat. Examples include:
- Chinese Sausage (Lap Cheong): Traditional recipes and commercial preparations often include MSG for its unique flavor.
- Harbin Red Sausage: This specific type of sausage recipe explicitly calls for added MSG.
- Deli Meats and Bologna: Processed deli meats, bologna, and other luncheon meats may contain MSG to boost flavor.
- Pepperoni and Jerky: Meat sticks, beef jerky, and pepperoni are often seasoned with additives, including MSG, to create a more savory and satisfying flavor.
Seasoned and Marinated Meats
Meat that comes pre-marinated or with a rub often contains MSG. For home cooks, many commercially available spice blends also list MSG as an ingredient.
- Pre-seasoned Poultry: Dry poultry seasonings and rubs frequently contain MSG, which is then rubbed into the meat before cooking.
- Restaurant and Fast Food Meat: Some fast-food chains are known to use MSG in their meat products, such as seasoned chicken and certain beef dishes, to enhance flavor consistency.
- Frozen Meals: Many ready-made or frozen meat-based meals, including those labeled as 'healthy' or 'low-fat,' use MSG to boost flavor.
Identifying MSG on Food Labels
Manufacturers are required to list monosodium glutamate (MSG) on the ingredients label if it is added directly. However, it can also be present in other ingredients that naturally contain high levels of glutamate. It's crucial to be a savvy label reader to determine if a meat product contains added MSG. Look for these terms:
- Monosodium Glutamate
- Yeast Extract
- Autolyzed Yeast
- Hydrolyzed Vegetable Protein (HVP)
- 621 (the European additive number for MSG)
Natural Glutamate in Unprocessed Meat
In contrast to processed options, fresh, unprocessed meat contains glutamate that occurs naturally as an amino acid. The flavor is a foundational savory taste, not an added one. The free glutamate levels tend to be lower than in products where MSG is added, but aging and cooking can increase the concentration. Here are some examples of fresh meats containing natural glutamate:
- Fresh Beef, Pork, and Lamb: These are rich in protein and thus contain naturally occurring glutamates.
- Fresh Chicken and Poultry: All fresh poultry is a source of natural glutamate.
- Fresh Fish and Seafood: Many types of fish, like salmon, have high levels of natural glutamate.
Umami Boosters and Alternatives
If you want to add a savory punch to meat without using added MSG, consider some of these alternatives which are high in natural glutamate:
- Tomato Paste or Sun-Dried Tomatoes: These have a high concentration of natural umami.
- Mushrooms: Varieties like shiitake are particularly rich in natural glutamate.
- Aged Cheeses: Parmesan cheese is a prime example of a food with a high concentration of free glutamate.
Comparison of Meat and Glutamate Sources
| Meat Product | Type of Glutamate | Common Form | Added or Natural? |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fresh Steak | Naturally Occurring | Free Glutamate | Natural |
| Deli Ham | Naturally Occurring & Added | Free & Bound Glutamate, MSG | Both |
| Chicken Nuggets (Fast Food) | Added | MSG, Hydrolyzed Protein | Added |
| Chinese Sausage | Naturally Occurring & Added | Free Glutamate, MSG | Both |
| Homemade Beef Marinade | Variable | MSG (if added), Natural | Both |
| Plain Roasted Chicken | Naturally Occurring | Free Glutamate | Natural |
Conclusion
While fresh meat contains natural glutamate, the primary sources of added MSG in meat products are processed and pre-seasoned items like sausages, deli meats, and fast-food options. Reading the ingredients list is the most reliable method for identifying products with added MSG, as it may be labeled as monosodium glutamate or disguised in other ingredients like yeast extract. Understanding the difference between natural and added glutamate empowers consumers to make informed decisions about their meat consumption, especially for those who are sensitive to the additive. For a detailed guide on MSG regulation and safety, you can visit a reliable source such as the FDA's official information on MSG.
A note on MSG and cooking
MSG is not a tenderizer for meat, nor does it improve the quality of inferior ingredients. Its sole purpose is to enhance the existing savory flavor, making food taste more satisfying. The presence of MSG in many different seasoning blends shows just how widespread this practice is across the food industry.
Final thoughts on meat and MSG
For those who wish to avoid MSG, the best practice is to opt for fresh, unprocessed meats and to prepare them at home using simple seasonings. This provides complete control over the ingredients used and ensures no additives are unknowingly consumed. For packaged items, diligently checking the label for MSG and its synonyms is key to a successful avoidance strategy. Making a conscious effort to understand food ingredients is the most effective way to manage dietary choices, particularly when it comes to additives in processed meats.
