What is monosodium glutamate (MSG) used for?

Key facts

Name on labels (INCI)

MSG (E621)

Also called

MSG, E621, Sodium glutamate, Glutamic acid monosodium salt

E number

E621

Grade to ask for

99%, 40–80 mesh

Supplied as

25 kg bags

The sodium salt of glutamic acid, made by fermenting sugar or starch. Sold as glassy needle crystals.

What it does

Flavour enhancer

Provides umami and makes savoury foods taste fuller and meatier.

Salt reduction aid

Can allow some reduction in salt while keeping a savoury taste, because it adds flavour with less sodium than salt.

Products on How It's Made that use monosodium glutamate

On How It's Made, MSG is in seasoning cubes and the seasoning sachet of instant noodles.

Grades and specifications

Crystal size (mesh)

Sold in several crystal sizes, from large crystals for retail to fine powder for blending; 40–80 mesh is common for seasonings.

Purity

Food-grade MSG is typically 99% or more pure monohydrate.

Handling, safety and regulation

Stored dry in sealed bags; it is stable and easy to handle. It must be declared on food labels.

The US FDA classes MSG as Generally Recognized as Safe (GRAS), and the EU permits it in certain foods with quantitative limits. It is listed in the Codex General Standard for Food Additives. Seasoning products in Nigeria need NAFDAC registration.

Where monosodium glutamate comes from

Glutamic acid was identified as the source of umami taste by Kikunae Ikeda in 1908. Today, Corynebacterium bacteria ferment sugars or starches to produce glutamate, which is neutralised with sodium and crystallised. Production is concentrated in Asia, and West Africa imports MSG in 25 kg bags.

Sourcing monosodium glutamate through Matta

Listings found on matta.trade, read 15 Oct 2026. Prices are a snapshot, not live; the listing is always the final word. Different suppliers and grades: compare prices only where the unit matches.

Related ingredients

Citric acidWheat flourSodium benzoateSodium bicarbonate