Scientific Studies on
MSG Safety
Extensive scientific studies conducted across the globe have collectively demonstrated that MSG and glutamate are generally safe for human consumption.
Key findings indicate that typical dietary doses of MSG do not have adverse health effects. They also showcase that the global regulatory bodies such as JECFA and EFSA support the safety of MSG.
Intestinal Mucosal Amino Acid Catabolism
Author: Guoyao Wu
Year: 2023
Summary: The study investigated how the small intestine catabolizes dietary amino acids, impacting their availability to extraintestinal tissues and the efficiency of dietary protein utilization. It found that 96% of glutamate delivered enterally is extracted in the first pass by the human splanchnic bed, highlighting that dietary glutamine and glutamate do not significantly enter the portal circulation. Instead, they are metabolized within the intestine, which suggests that these amino acids primarily support intestinal functions rather than being available to other tissues.
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Monosodium Glutamate Induces Limited Modulation in Gut Microbiota
Authors: Qiannan Peng, Dongxue Huo, Chenchen Ma, Shuaiming Jiang, Linsong Wang, Jiachao Zhang
Year: 2018
Summary: The study assessed the effects of MSG consumption on the human intestinal microbiota, particularly focusing on whether MSG alters the microbial community structure and functional features within the gut. It found that while certain bacteria showed variation trends, there were no significant changes in the overall composition of the gut microbiota during the different MSG consumption phases. The results of the study suggest that MSG consumption at typical dietary levels may not significantly alter gut microbiota in healthy individuals.
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Monosodium L-Glutamate and Dietary Fat Differently Modify the Composition of the Intestinal Microbiota in Growing Pigs
Authors: Ze-Meng Feng, Tie-Jun Li, Li Wu, Ding-Fu Xiao, Francois Blachier, Yu-Long Yin
Year: 2015
Summary: This study examined how MSG and dietary fat affect the composition of the intestinal microbiota in growing pigs. The results showed that both MSG and fat increased microbial diversity, particularly in the colon. MSG promoted the colonization of Faecalibacterium prausnitzii and Roseburia, while fat increased the presence of Prevotella. The study suggests that individual or combined dietary changes can modify microbiota composition, which may have implications for preventing obesity.
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Physiological roles of dietary glutamate signalling via gut–brain axis due to efficient digestion and absorption
Author: Kunio Torii, Hisayuki Uneyama, Eiji Nakamura, Institute for Innovation, Ajinomoto Co., Inc
Year: 2013
Summary: The study was conducted to highlight that dietary glutamate (Glu) is more than just an umami flavoring agent; it plays a critical role in the body’s energy metabolism, particularly within the gastrointestinal (GI) tract. In conclusion, the study underscored the integrative role of dietary Glu in digestion, nutrient absorption, and metabolic regulation, highlighting its significance beyond mere flavor enhancement in food.
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Supplementing chicken broth with monosodium glutamate reduces hunger and desire to snack but does not affect energy intake in women
Author: Brett E Carter, Pablo Monsivais, Martine M Perrigue, Adam Drewnowski, Nutritional Sciences Program, School of Public Health, Center for Public Health Nutrition, University of Washington, Seattle
Year: 2011
Summary: The study explored the impact of monosodium glutamate (MSG) on energy intake, specifically in middle-aged healthy women. It involved a controlled experiment where participants were given chicken broth with and without added MSG. The study’s results were significant in indicating a potential dietary strategy for weight management, particularly for those seeking to reduce calorie intake without significantly altering their diet.
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Intestinal glutamate metabolism
Author: Peter J. Reeds,3 Douglas G. Burrin, Barbara Stoll and Farook Jahoor, U.S. Department of Agriculture/Agricultural Research Service, Children’s Nutrition Research Center,Department of Pediatrics, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX
Year: 2000
Summary: The research examined how the gut utilizes dietary and endogenous glutamate, largely directing it towards energy production rather than transporting it in free form into the bloodstream. Findings from the study revealed that glutamate plays a pivotal role in maintaining intestinal integrity and function, while also influencing overall nitrogen metabolism in the body. This research provides insights into how amino acid metabolism in the intestines affects overall physiological functions and may inform nutritional strategies in clinical settings.
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The role of dietary Glutamate in the intestine
Author: Daniel Tomé, UMR PNCA, INRA, AgroParisTech, Université Paris-Saclay, Paris, France
Year: 1998
Summary: The study was conducted to explore the roles of dietary glutamate in the intestine. It found that dietary glutamate plays numerous roles in the intestine, being involved in energy metabolism, in the synthesis of important bioactive molecules, and in sensory and signaling pathways. It also found that most ingested glutamate is metabolized locally, keeping peripheral blood levels low except after high doses. Glutamate also contributes to taste and oral sensations.
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