Is Monosodium Glutamate (MSG) (E621) halal and vegan?

A flavour enhancer, today produced by fermenting plant starches or sugars.

Is E621 halal?

Modern MSG is made by fermentation and is generally considered halal.

Is E621 vegan?

Standard MSG is fermentation-based with no animal input — generally vegan.

Is E621 safe? Health effects

MSG is 'generally recognized as safe' by the US FDA and approved in the EU and Japan. Large reviews have not confirmed the 'Chinese restaurant syndrome' once blamed on it; a small number of people report short-term sensitivity at high doses. It contains sodium, so it counts toward your salt intake.

Where you'll find it

Instant noodles, chips, seasonings and many processed foods.