MSG in Meat: All You Need to Know

Monosodium glutamate (MSG) is a well-known flavor-enhancing ingredient in many foods. In the food industry, it’s also known as E621. Although it brings an umami flavor to a product, some consumers wish to avoid it for potential health reasons or personal preference.
Debates regarding health effects have resulted in the need for clear labeling in many countries, including the U.S. and Japan. Here’s everything you need to know about MSG in meat, including how to check if a product contains added MSG, so you can feel sure about what you feed yourself and your family.

What is MSG and Why is it Used in Meat Products?

First off, MSG is a flavor enhancer that comes from glutamic acid. This is a naturally occurring amino acid found naturally in many foods. MSG enhances umami taste without the need to add excessive amounts of salt or other seasonings.
This makes it especially popular in meat products such as processed meats, sausages, and canned meats to improve palatability and shelf life.

Does Bacon Contain MSG?

Well, glutamate is naturally found in various foods, particularly those high in protein, including bacon. However, some bacon producers choose to add synthetic MSG as a concentrated enhancer to boost flavor, and this is the additive ingredient that can cause concern among some consumers.
To check if a meat product has added MSG, read the ingredients list.
This is easy to do in Japan and the U.S. because MSG must be labeled if added directly to a food product. It is specifically mandated in the U.S. by Federal regulation and in Japan by the Japanese Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare.
These labeling rules are part of countries’ broader commitment to food safety and transparency, especially for additives that might concern sensitive consumers.

Key Terms to Look For on Labels for MSG

Understanding the labeling terms for MSG can help you make informed choices about what you buy, and to spot what contains MSG. Some of the common names for ingredients that may contain MSG or glutamate include:

• ・Monosodium Glutamate – The direct term for MSG
• ・Hydrolyzed Vegetable Protein – Contains free glutamate
• ・Yeast Extract or Autolyzed Yeast – Contains natural glutamate
• ・Amino Acid Seasoning – Used in Japan to indicate MSG

In Japan, for example, MSG may be labeled as “amino acid seasoning,” and hydrolyzed proteins, which can also contain glutamate, must be listed by their specific names. In the U.S., products containing MSG must clearly display it on the ingredients list.

No Added MSG in Jones Dairy Farm Bacon Products, Ever

Jones Dairy Farm has from the beginning, refused to add artificial flavors such as MSG. Take a look at the Jones Dairy Farm No-Sugar Bacon label as an example. You’ll see it only includes the most basic ingredients, so you can feel good about what you give your family. Jones Dairy Farm all natural sausage does not contain MSG either. Jones prides itself on products that are premium quality, made the traditional way, and based on century-old recipes.

Sources:
https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/msg-good-or-bad#what-it-is
https://www.nature.com/articles/s41538-023-00178-2
https://kokorocares.com/blogs/blog/msg-monosodium-glutamine-what-it-is-and-how-to-spot-it-in-japan
https://thekitchentoday.com/does-bacon-have-msg
https://www.fda.gov/food/food-additives-petitions/questions-and-answers-monosodium-glutamate-msg
https://www.mhlw.go.jp/english/