Table of Contents

Food Testing & Analysis – Monosodium Glutamate (MSG)

Food Testing & Analysis - Monosodium Glutamate (MSG)
Food Testing & Analysis – Monosodium Glutamate (MSG)

Monosodium glutamate (MSG) is the sodium salt of glutamic acid, a highly abundant and naturally occurring non-essential amino acid. It is a flavor enhancer and is responsible for imparting the umami taste to food – the so-called “fifth taste”. It adds a savory, meaty flavor to the food, and is very popular especially in Chinese cuisine. It is used in such preparations as Chow Mein, Chilly Chicken, Chicken Manchurian, Chinese Fried Rice etc.

MSG can be tested in foodstuffs by analytical methods; High Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC) and High Performance Thin Layer Chromatography (HPTLC). MSG can also be analyzed through Chemical Analysis (Potentiometric Titration Method).

We have a state-of-the-art NABL accredited and FSSAI notified laboratory that is well equipped with the latest instruments supported by professional team for testing & analysis of MSG in various food articles.

The FSSAI clearly states with reference to labeling that as per Regulation 2.2.1 of the FSSR; “Pre-packaged food shall not be described or presented on any label or in any labeling manner that is false, misleading or deceptive or is likely to create an erroneous impression regarding its character in any respect”. This is in agreement with the USFDA regulations which state that if a food substance contains “naturally occurring MSG”, the manufacturers cannot label the pack “No added MSG”.

It should be noted that samples of food that contain “naturally occurring MSG”, in spite of “no added MSG” will give a positive test for MSG when analysis is done.

The FSSAI clearly prescribes that every advertisement for and/or a package of food containing added MSG shall carry the following declaration, namely,

This package of (name of the food contains added)………… MONOSODIUM GLUTAMATE NOT RECOMMENDED FOR INFANTS BELOW – 12 MONTHS

 

As per the FSSAI guidelines, MSG is not permitted in pastas and noodles (dried products). Currently, FSSAI has guidelines for maximum permissible limits of MSG to be added to canned crab meat (500mg/kg maximum) only. But there are no guidelines for the maximum limit of naturally occurring MSG in food.

Our dedicated scientific staff are always abreast of the latest developments in the scientific arena, and are well versed with the latest techniques and instrumentations to carry out testing of MSG in various types of foodstuffs on a regular basis.

Please contact us today using the quick query form on the right or by calling us now on +91-11-45754575 to get your food samples tested for MSG content.

Leave a Reply

Testing
Enter the Captcha