A History of Flavor: How MSG Found its Way into Chips
Monosodium glutamate, or MSG, is the sodium salt of glutamic acid, an amino acid found naturally in many foods like tomatoes and cheese. Discovered by a Japanese professor in 1908 while studying seaweed broth, MSG was identified as the source of the savory 'umami' taste. Its ability to enhance and balance the existing flavor profile of food led to its widespread adoption in the food industry. For snack manufacturers, this meant a powerful tool to make flavors—especially cheesy, meaty, and smoky ones—more intense and satisfying. It also allowed for a reduction in overall sodium content without sacrificing the salty perception of the snack.
The Role of MSG in Modern Snack Production
MSG is not merely about adding saltiness; it's a strategic ingredient that modifies the entire taste perception. Even at low concentrations, it amplifies notes of other seasonings, such as onion, garlic, and spices. This creates a more complex and well-rounded flavor experience that keeps consumers coming back for more. In fried chips, it can even contribute to a longer-lingering aftertaste and a creamier mouthfeel. Major snack corporations have incorporated it into many of their popular flavors to ensure a consistent, crave-worthy taste.
Popular Potato Chips That Use MSG
Identifying exactly what potato chips use MSG can be tricky because recipes and ingredient suppliers can change. However, several popular brands and flavors are well-known for including it in their seasoning blends, according to ingredient lists and nutritional databases.
Specific Brands and Flavors
- Ruffles: Flavors like Cheddar & Sour Cream and All Dressed typically include monosodium glutamate in their ingredient lists. Other enhancers like yeast extract are also common in Ruffles seasonings.
- Pringles: Many flavored Pringles varieties, including Cheddar Cheese and Sour Cream & Onion, contain monosodium glutamate. They often pair it with other enhancers like disodium inosinate and disodium guanylate for a more powerful umami effect.
- Lay's: Frito-Lay, the parent company, has stated that they use "extremely low levels of MSG in some products to enhance flavor". While classic Lay's are often MSG-free, international or specifically flavored versions like Barbecue and Spicy flavors may contain it.
- Doritos: Although a corn chip, Doritos (another Frito-Lay product) are frequently mentioned alongside potato chips in the context of MSG. The Nacho Cheese and Flamin' Hot Nacho flavors both list monosodium glutamate as an ingredient.
Decoding the Ingredient Label
Food companies are not always required to list “MSG” directly on the label. To avoid it, you must recognize its alternative names. These can be naturally occurring sources high in glutamate, which act similarly to MSG, or chemical compounds that work synergistically with it.
- Common MSG Aliases and Enhancers:
- Hydrolyzed Vegetable Protein
- Yeast Extract
- Autolyzed Yeast
- Soy Sauce Powder
- Maltodextrin
- Natural Flavors (can be a broad category that includes glutamate)
- Disodium Inosinate (IMP)
- Disodium Guanylate (GMP)
- Any “protein isolate” or “concentrate”
Comparison Table: MSG in Popular Chip Flavors
| Brand | Flavor | Contains Added MSG? | Key Flavor Enhancers |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pringles | Sour Cream & Onion | Yes | Monosodium Glutamate, Yeast Extract, Disodium Inosinate, Disodium Guanylate |
| Ruffles | Cheddar & Sour Cream | Yes | Monosodium Glutamate, Yeast Extract, Buttermilk |
| Lay's | Classic | No | Salt |
| Doritos | Nacho Cheese | Yes | Monosodium Glutamate, Disodium Inosinate, Disodium Guanylate, Whey, Cheddar Cheese |
| Old Dutch | Various (MSG-free) | No | Spices, Salts, Natural Flavorings |
Brands That Do Not Add MSG
For those who prefer to avoid added MSG, there are several brands and flavors to consider. Some companies, like Old Dutch Foods, have a stated policy to not add MSG to their base products. Additionally, many basic, lightly salted, or unflavored chips from major brands do not contain added MSG. Always check the specific ingredient list, as even within a single brand, the presence of MSG can vary widely from one flavor to another.
The Controversy and Scientific Consensus
The idea that MSG causes health issues like headaches is a myth, largely stemming from anecdotal reports in the 1960s. Subsequent high-quality, double-blind studies have consistently failed to find a link between MSG in food and adverse reactions in most people. Regulatory bodies like the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) have classified MSG as "Generally Recognized as Safe" (GRAS). Concerns persist for a small portion of the population who report sensitivity, but these instances are rare. The best approach for any individual is to be informed and to read the nutritional labels on their favorite snacks. WebMD on MSG in food
Conclusion
While the exact recipes for snack foods are constantly evolving, many popular potato chips use MSG, especially those with bold, savory, or cheesy flavors. Brands like Pringles and Ruffles frequently include it in their flavored varieties, while its presence in Lay's varies by flavor. The key for a consumer is to look beyond just the term "MSG" and recognize its alternative names and common flavor-enhancing partners on the ingredients label. By staying informed, you can make snack choices that align with your dietary preferences, whether you're seeking to avoid MSG or simply understand what makes your favorite chips taste so satisfyingly savory.
