Flavor Enhancer · CAS 142-47-2 · EU E621
MSG (Monosodium Glutamate)
FDA status: GRAS. EU: Approved. No U.S. state has enacted a specific ban yet.
According to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, MSG (Monosodium Glutamate) is classified GRAS by the FDA, and no U.S. state has moved to restrict it independently of federal policy. Its composite safety score is 4 out of 5 (Low Risk), and the European Union separately classifies it as approved.
The verdict
MSG (Monosodium Glutamate) is classified GRAS by the FDA, and no U.S. state has moved to restrict it.
- 4/5
- Low Risk
- GRAS
- FDA status
- Approved
- EU status
- 0
- state regulations
CAS-led regulatory snapshot
MSG (Monosodium Glutamate): no OFF product match; CAS 142-47-2 is the lead registry handle on this row.
| Property | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| CAS Number | 142-47-2 | CAS Registry |
| FDA Status | GRAS | FDA SAFFA |
| EU Status | Approved | EC 1333/2008 |
| E-Number | E621 | EU additive register |
| Category | Flavor Enhancer | FDA functional class |
| Composite Safety Score | 4 / 5 (Low Risk) | PlainIngredients methodology |
| EFSA ADI | Not established | EFSA scientific opinion |
| U.S. State Actions | 0 states | State legislative records |
| Tracked Products | Not yet tracked | Open Food Facts (US) |
Values reflect official agency classifications as published by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration and the European Union's regulatory framework. See our methodology for scoring details.
What is MSG (Monosodium Glutamate)?
Flavor enhancer that adds umami taste.
Health Concerns
- Extensive research has not confirmed "Chinese Restaurant Syndrome." FDA considers it safe.
Common Uses
Catalog-profile peer axes
Nationwide catalog-profile peers for MSG (Monosodium Glutamate)
Product-count (0) and safety-score (4/5) peer columns, disjoint link sets.
Score 4/5 peers (≥50 OFF products)
Nearest other additives by PlainIngredients safety score (floored at ≥50 tracked products), distinct from the count row.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is MSG (Monosodium Glutamate) safe to consume?
MSG (Monosodium Glutamate) scores 4/5 (Low Risk). FDA status is GRAS. No OFF product match yet; the distinctive registry handle is CAS 142-47-2, so this page leads with the chemical identity row rather than a shelf-prevalence claim.
What is MSG (Monosodium Glutamate) used for in food?
MSG (Monosodium Glutamate) (CAS 142-47-2) is catalogued for Soups, chips, frozen meals, seasoning mixes (Flavor Enhancer); OFF has not matched a U.S. product row yet.
What is the difference between FDA and EU regulation of MSG (Monosodium Glutamate)?
The FDA classifies MSG (Monosodium Glutamate) as "GRAS" while the EU status is "Approved" (E621). The EU often applies the precautionary principle, sometimes restricting additives that remain approved in the US.
What health concerns are associated with MSG (Monosodium Glutamate)?
Research has identified the following health concerns for MSG (Monosodium Glutamate): Extensive research has not confirmed "Chinese Restaurant Syndrome." FDA considers it safe.. These findings inform its safety score of 4/5. Consult a healthcare provider for personalized guidance, especially if you have pre-existing conditions.