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Ingredient Guide

🇪🇺 Monosodium Glutamate (MSG) on Food Labels in EU

Monosodium Glutamate (MSG) is permitted with proper declaration in European Union: declare as "monosodium glutamate (E621)" in the ingredient list.

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What the Rule Is

Monosodium glutamate (MSG, E621) is the sodium salt of glutamic acid, an amino acid naturally present in tomatoes, cheese, and mushrooms, used to add umami/savoury taste. In European Union, Monosodium Glutamate (MSG) is regulated under FIC Regulation 1169/2011 as a food flavor-enhancer. Must be declared by functional class and specific name: "flavour enhancer (E621)" or "flavour enhancer: monosodium glutamate (E621)". Unlike yeast extract, added MSG must be declared specifically. It is not sufficient to hide it under "flavourings".

What You Must Include
  • Declare as "monosodium glutamate (E621)" in the ingredient list
  • Declare with functional class: "flavor enhancer" and E-number E621
  • Review all compound ingredients for hidden sources
  • Cross-check all compound ingredients and sub-ingredients for hidden sources
Common Violations
  • Incorrect or missing declaration name — must use "monosodium glutamate (E621)"
  • Using an ambiguous or abbreviated name that does not identify Monosodium Glutamate (MSG)
  • Omitting the E-number E621 where required
  • Not updating the label after recipe changes involving this ingredient
  • Failing to check compound ingredients for hidden Monosodium Glutamate (MSG) content
Examples: Compliant vs Non-Compliant

Compliant Examples

"flavor enhancer: monosodium glutamate (E621)"
"monosodium glutamate (E621)" in ingredient list
Full ingredient line: "Ingredients: ... monosodium glutamate (E621) ..."

Non-Compliant Examples

Using a synonym (Sodium glutamate, E621) without the approved declaration name
Ingredient list with "Monosodium Glutamate (MSG)" without functional class or E-number
"Natural [ingredient category]" without specific name where specific name is required
How LabelGuard Checks This

LabelGuard scans your label for Monosodium Glutamate (MSG) and all its common names (Monosodium glutamate, Sodium glutamate, E621, MSG) to verify correct declaration, required E-numbers, and proper functional class labeling under EU rules.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is monosodium glutamate (msg) (E621)?

Monosodium glutamate (MSG, E621) is the sodium salt of glutamic acid, an amino acid naturally present in tomatoes, cheese, and mushrooms, used to add umami/savoury taste. It commonly appears in: Instant noodles, Crisps/chips, Soups, Seasonings, Fast food.

Is monosodium glutamate (msg) bad for you?

The FDA classes MSG as GRAS and EFSA set a group ADI of 30 mg/kg body weight per day in 2017. Reports of an "MSG symptom complex" (headaches, flushing) have not been reproduced in controlled, blinded studies at normal dietary intakes, though a small number of people may react to very large doses on an empty stomach.

How must Monosodium Glutamate (MSG) be declared on food labels in EU?

Declare as "monosodium glutamate (E621)" in the ingredient list. Must be declared by functional class and specific name: "flavour enhancer (E621)" or "flavour enhancer: monosodium glutamate (E621)". Unlike yeast extract, added MSG must be declared specifically. It is not sufficient to hide it under "flavourings".

What are the common synonyms and hidden sources of Monosodium Glutamate (MSG)?

Monosodium Glutamate (MSG) may appear under the following names: Monosodium glutamate, Sodium glutamate, E621, MSG, Glutamate. Common hidden sources include: Instant noodles, Crisps/chips, Soups, Seasonings, Fast food, Soy sauce, Some cheeses (naturally occurring).

Is monosodium glutamate (msg) banned in Europe or other markets?

Monosodium Glutamate (MSG) is permitted in all major markets with proper declaration.

Regulation Sources

Last updated: 2026-07-20

Disclaimer: This information is for guidance only and does not constitute legal advice. Always consult official regulations and seek professional legal advice for specific compliance questions.

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