Top Pizza Chains That Don't Add MSG
Many consumers are actively seeking restaurant options that avoid artificial additives and flavor enhancers like monosodium glutamate (MSG). For pizza lovers, several large chains have listened to this demand and updated their ingredient policies. It is important to distinguish between added MSG and naturally occurring glutamates, which are found in common pizza ingredients like tomatoes and aged cheeses.
Papa John's: The Clean Ingredients Advocate
For years, Papa John's has built its brand around the slogan "Better Ingredients. Better Pizza." As part of this commitment, the company has explicitly stated that it does not use MSG, high-fructose corn syrup, artificial flavors, or synthetic colors in its food. They have also removed other preservatives like BHA and BHT from their meats. This focus on a "clean label" means customers can be confident they are avoiding added MSG when ordering from Papa John's.
Domino's: International Commitment to No Added MSG
Across different regions, Domino's has made significant strides in cleaning up its menu. For example, in the UK and Australia, the company publicly states it does not use added MSG in its products. The Australian branch went further by committing to remove all artificial colors, flavors, and preservatives from its menu. While this is a strong global indicator, customers in the United States should always confirm the policy on the local corporate website, as ingredient standards can vary by country.
Pizza Hut: Early Adopter of Healthier Ingredients
Pizza Hut was one of the earliest national chains to commit to removing MSG from its core pizza recipes, a change made around 2015. The company also removed partially hydrogenated oils and artificial colors and flavors during a comprehensive ingredient review. This established a precedent among major pizza brands for catering to health-conscious consumers. By eliminating these additives, Pizza Hut provides a cleaner option for its customers nationwide.
Smaller and Artisanal Chains
Beyond the big three, several other chains have also focused on fresh, clean ingredients:
- Blaze Pizza: Known for its build-your-own pizzas, Blaze uses fresh dough with simple ingredients, including unbleached flour, extra-virgin oil, and salt. Their commitment to simple, chemical-free ingredients makes them a strong contender for those avoiding added MSG.
- Figaro's Pizza: This chain explicitly advertises its commitment to using 100% natural, fresh ingredients, proudly stating "No MSG" on its website. They also promise no fillers, ensuring a straightforward and clean dining experience.
- Papa Murphy's: As a "take-and-bake" chain, Papa Murphy's emphasizes fresh preparation. While specific MSG policies should be confirmed, their focus on fresh, high-quality toppings aligns with a cleaner ingredient philosophy.
Understanding the Difference: Added vs. Natural MSG
It is crucial to understand that even with a no-added-MSG policy, some ingredients inherently contain naturally occurring glutamates. These are the same flavor compounds but are not synthetically added to the food. The presence of these natural compounds can sometimes cause confusion for those sensitive to MSG. Here are some common pizza ingredients high in natural glutamates:
- Tomatoes (in pizza sauce)
- Aged cheeses (like Parmesan and Romano)
- Mushrooms (a common pizza topping)
- Processed meats (like pepperoni, which may have added MSG depending on the producer; checking the specific brand is recommended)
For those with extreme sensitivity, even naturally occurring glutamates could be a concern, making ingredient label research and communication with restaurant staff essential.
Comparison of MSG Policies at Major Pizza Chains
| Pizza Chain | Policy on Added MSG | Other Ingredient Changes | Notes on Natural Glutamates |
|---|---|---|---|
| Papa John's | Explicitly no added MSG | No artificial colors, flavors, HFCS, or BHA/BHT | Present in tomato sauce and cheese |
| Pizza Hut | Eliminated added MSG | Removed artificial colors, flavors, and partially hydrogenated oils | Present in tomato sauce and cheese |
| Domino's | No added MSG in certain regions (e.g., AU/UK) | In some markets, removed artificial colors/flavors and GMO ingredients | Present in tomato sauce and cheese |
| Blaze Pizza | Implied via fresh, simple ingredients | Fresh dough, no artificial flavors | Present in tomato sauce and cheese |
| Figaro's Pizza | Explicitly no added MSG | All-natural ingredients, no fillers | Present in tomato sauce and cheese |
Conclusion
For consumers looking to avoid added MSG, the good news is that several major pizza chains have responsive ingredient policies. Papa John's, Pizza Hut, and in some markets, Domino's, have all taken steps to remove this particular additive, responding directly to public demand for cleaner food. Smaller or regional chains like Blaze Pizza and Figaro's also offer compelling options focused on fresh, natural ingredients, making them excellent alternatives. For those with high sensitivity, it is still recommended to review the full ingredient list or nutritional information available on the company website, as ingredients like tomatoes and cheese contain naturally occurring glutamates. By doing a little research, you can find a delicious pizza that fits your dietary needs without sacrificing flavor.
This article is for informational purposes only. For the most up-to-date information, always consult a chain's official ingredient listing or nutritional information. See Papa John's Ingredients here
Note: The presence of naturally occurring glutamates in ingredients like tomatoes and cheese means that no pizza is 100% free of all glutamate compounds, but many chains are free of added monosodium glutamate.
Resources and Further Reading
For those interested in exploring this topic further or verifying current policies, consider visiting the official websites for ingredient information. These resources provide detailed allergen and nutritional information to help you make an informed decision.
- Papa John's Ingredients: Offers details on their clean-label initiatives and ingredients used.
- Domino's FAQs: Many international Domino's sites, such as the UK version, have specific FAQs on MSG and other additives.
- Pizza Hut Blog: The company has historically posted updates about ingredient changes and commitments.
Ultimately, finding a pizza chain without added MSG is a straightforward process, thanks to greater transparency in the food industry. Your best bet is to choose a chain with a strong public commitment to clean ingredients and review their most current nutritional information online.
