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Monosodium Glutamate and Cancer: Is There a Connection?

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Studies have no conclusive evidence suggesting that monosodium glutamate is linked to human cancer. Read this article to know more.

Medically reviewed by Dr. Rajesh Gulati
Published At August 7, 2023
Reviewed At August 7, 2023

Education:

BDS

Professional Bio:

Dr.Sanskriti has completed her graduation in Dental Surgery from Sarjug dental college and hospital in the year 2021. Dr.sanskriti has one year of clinical experience and completed her one-year internship.

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Education:

MBBS

Professional Bio:

Dr. Rajesh Gulati is a Family Physician with 21 years of clinical experience. He did his MBBS from Goa Medical College in 2002. Later, he pursued his Post Graduate Diploma in Geriatric Medicine from Indira Gandhi Open University in 2008. He expertise in Geriatrics and Medical Oncology. He can communicate in Hindi and Punjabi. He also works as SME in Clinical Abstraction Oncology.

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Table of Contents

Introduction:

Monosodium glutamate, commonly known as MSG, is a flavor enhancer commonly used in various cuisines, especially in Asian cuisine. MSG is a white crystalline substance derived from glutamic acid, an amino acid naturally found in many foods, including meats, vegetables, and dairy products. MSG enhances food flavor by imparting a savory taste known as umami.

However, there have been concerns about the safety of MSG, with some studies suggesting a link between MSG consumption and cancer. In this article, we will examine the evidence to determine whether there is a connection between monosodium glutamate and cancer.

What Is Monosodium Glutamate?

One of the most prevalent amino acids, glutamic acid, is a salt found in monosodium glutamate (MSG). Although glutamic acid is a naturally occurring substance, it is commercially manufactured by the fermentation of molasses, sugar cane, and sugar beet. Glutamate is a building block for synthesizing other amino acids and is not a necessary amino acid in and of itself. Glutamate also acts as a substrate for the manufacture of glutathione and as an energy source for some tissues in the body. However, MSG is a natural ingredient in many foods. MSG is also frequently used as a flavor enhancer. MSG creates a distinct flavor that is unavailable in other foods.

Sometimes referred to as a 'sixth flavor', MSG induces a taste known as umami in Japanese, which translates to 'savory'. Umami is a component of Japanese cooking. Umami is considered an enhancer of other flavors. Saki, for example, has an effective glutamate content; hence, the Japanese belief that Saki compliments and enhances a meal. According to this research, a typical Chinese restaurant meal contains between 10 and 1500 mg of MSG per 100 g. In addition, a condensed soup typically contains between 0 and 480 mg, Parmesan cheese contains 1200 mg, and packaged sauces or seasonings contain 20 to 1900 mg. Therefore, a meal in a Chinese restaurant will likely contain more MSG than one might typically consume in a Western restaurant.

MSG is used for various purposes. Here are a few listed below:

  • Flavor Enhancer - MSG is used to enhance the savory flavor of food. It is used in soups, broths, sauces, marinades, and seasoning blends to improve the taste of the food.

  • Reducing Sodium - MSG can be used as a salt substitute to reduce the amount of sodium in food. It is often used in low-sodium and reduced-sodium products to provide a savory taste without adding extra salt.

  • Masking Off-Flavors - MSG is used to mask unpleasant flavors in food. For example, it can be added to bitter or sour foods to improve their taste, as MSG enhances flavor and make it taste better.

  • Preserving Food - MSG has antimicrobial properties and can be used as a preservative in some foods to increase their shelf life.

  • Improving Texture - MSG is used to improve the texture of some foods, such as processed meats and canned foods. For example, it can help to tenderize meat and improve the mouthfeel of processed foods.

What Are the Side-Effects of Monosodium Glutamate?

Studies have shown that high concentrations of MSG can cause china syndrome. The following are the side effects of MSG:

  • China Syndrome - China syndrome is also called Chinese restaurant syndrome. Chinese restaurant syndrome was plagued with problems. The following are the symptoms of Chinese restaurant syndrome (CRS):

  1. Flushing.
  2. Chest pain.
  3. Feelings of warmth.

  • Monosodium Glutamate as an Asthma Trigger - Several studies explored the possibility that MSG can trigger asthma exacerbations.

  • Monosodium Glutamate as a Migraine Trigger - MSG causes a ‘‘generalized vasomotor reaction,’’ which causes ‘‘throbbing pain at the temples and a throbbing sensation across the forehead. Therefore, it is considered a migraine trigger.

Can Monosodium Glutamate Cause Cancer?

Several studies have examined the potential link between MSG consumption and cancer.

The following are the conclusion drawn from various studies:

  • One study published in the Journal of Agriculture and Food Chemistry suggested that MSG may increase rats' liver cancer risk. However, it is important to note that the doses used in this study were significantly higher than humans would typically consume.

  • The study has not been replicated in humans.

  • Another study published in Cancer Epidemiology, Biomarkers & Prevention examined the association between dietary glutamate intake and women's risk of developing breast cancer. The study found no significant association between glutamate intake and breast cancer risk.

  • Some people have reported experiencing adverse reactions after consuming foods containing MSG. These reactions, commonly known as Chinese restaurant syndrome, include symptoms such as headaches, sweating, and nausea. However, these reactions are not linked to cancer.

  • The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) considers MSG safe for consumption. MSG is classified as a food ingredient that is Generally Recognized as Safe (GRAS), which means that it is considered safe based on a long history of common use in food.

What Is Role of Glutamate in Cancer?

Several studies evaluated that glutamate receptors are involved in tumor growth. It is proved that glutamate receptors have oncogenic (cancer causing agents) properties. The direct evidence of for mGluR1-driven (receptors of glutamate) melanoma (skin cancer) formation and progression is found. The research into the role of glutamate signaling in cancer development and progression is still in doubt; however, important progress has been made in recent years. The direct evidence exists and indicates that glutamate plays an important role in tumor development, acting as a growth factor and a mediator in tumors tissues. It is clear that future studies in this field are needed to determine the efficacy of antagonists of glutamate receptors and glutamate release inhibitors such as Riluzole against tumors. These antagonists will work against the oncogenic properties of glutamate and inhibit the growth of tumor. Research is needed to define the clinical significance of glutamate- glutamate receptors expression and signaling in various cancers.

Conclusion:

No conclusive evidence suggests that monosodium glutamate is linked to human cancer. While some studies have suggested a potential link between MSG and cancer in animals, these studies used doses significantly higher than humans would typically consume. The FDA considers MSG to be safe for consumption, and adverse reactions to MSG are not linked to cancer. As with any food ingredient, it is important to consume MSG in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Does Monosodium Glutamate Equate to Sodium?

Sodium and monosodium glutamate (MSG) are not the same. MSG is a substance that consists of both sodium and the amino acid glutamate. Sodium is an element, but MSG is a salt made of glutamic acid.

Is It Possible for Monosodium Glutamate to Trigger Allergic Reactions?

An allergic reaction to MSG is rare, although MSG intolerance or sensitivity can induce symptoms like nausea or headaches in some people. Allergic reactions usually involve the immune system, and limited scientific evidence directly connects MSG to allergic reactions.

What Are the Impacts on Health Associated With Monosodium Glutamate Consumption?

Individuals may experience different adverse effects from MSG use, such as headaches, flushing, or nausea. However, no scientific evidence exists to correlate MSG consumption to these symptoms. Moreover, regulatory bodies have acknowledged that MSG is safe to eat in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

Does Monosodium Glutamate Have a Connection to Headaches or Migraines?

Although some people complain of headaches or migraines after consuming MSG, there is limited and conflicting scientific evidence connecting MSG to these symptoms. Numerous studies indicate that MSG intake is not consistently linked to headaches or migraines in the general population, while individual susceptibility may vary.

Is Monosodium Glutamate Suitable for Inclusion in a Vegetarian or Vegan Eating Plan?

MSG can be used in vegetarian and vegan diets as it is derived from plant-based sources such as sugarcane, sugar beet, and corn. It can enhance the flavor of dishes without the need for animal products, making it a versatile option for vegetarian and vegan cooking.

Can Glutamate Be Found in Natural Sources?

Natural sources of glutamate may be found in various foods, including soy sauce, cheese, tomatoes, and mushrooms. These foods are naturally high in glutamate, an amino acid that adds to their umami (savory) flavor.

Is Gluten Present in Monosodium Glutamate?

Gluten is not present in Monosodium Glutamate (MSG). It is a substance without any gluten-containing components and is composed of salt and glutamate. As a result, MSG use is safe for those who have celiac disease or gluten intolerance.

Has Monosodium Glutamate Been Approved by Health Organizations?

Health agencies, including the World Health Organization (WHO), the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA), and the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), have all certified MSG as safe for consumption when taken in moderation. After extensive analyses of the available data, these institutions concluded that MSG poses no health risks to people.

Is It Safe for Pregnant Women to Eat Foods Containing Monosodium Glutamate?

Although there is not enough evidence to draw firm conclusions on the risks associated with MSG use during pregnancy, pregnant women may usually safely consume foods containing MSG in moderation. They should, however, always maintain a balanced diet and consult with their healthcare professional if they have any nutritional concerns.

In What Way Does Monosodium Glutamate Improve the Flavor of Food?

MSG improves food flavor by activating the tongue's umami taste receptors, which detect savory tastes. It enhances food flavor by giving it more depth and richness without necessarily changing the overall taste profile.

What Other Names Can Be Used to Refer to Monosodium Glutamate?

Monosodium glutamate is also known as sodium glutamate, MSG, and E621. The same substance, often employed to improve taste in cooking, can be referred to by either of these phrases interchangeably.

Is It Safe for Children to Consume Products Containing Monosodium Glutamate?

When MSG is utilized within reasonable bounds, children may frequently consume items containing it without risk because there is not much data indicating that it has negative consequences unique to children. As with any food additive, moderation is advised, so parents should consider keeping an eye on their kids' consumption and ensuring a well-balanced diet in general.

Is Monosodium Glutamate Categorized as a Natural or Artificial Additive?

Monosodium glutamate (MSG) is considered an artificial additive because it is produced through manufacturing. However, the glutamate component found in MSG also occurs naturally in various foods, so while the compound itself is artificial, its primary constituent is derived from natural sources.

What Is the Food Industry’s Process for Handling Monosodium Glutamate?

In the food business, starches from plants like maize, sugarcane, or sugar beet are usually fermented with certain bacteria or yeasts to produce MSG. The starches are then purified to separate the monosodium glutamate component.

Can the Effects of Monosodium Glutamate Be Nullified by Cooking?

Cooking does not eliminate MSG's effects. Heat can increase the savory taste of food by releasing glutamate molecules, which is one way that MSG enhances flavor. Consequently, adding MSG to food can improve its flavor even after it has been heated.

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Dr. Rajesh Gulati from iCliniq
Dr. Rajesh Gulati

Family Physician

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