MSG's messy myths and racist tropes

Monosodium glutamate (MSG) is a flavour enhancer that often gets a bad wrap.

You might know someone who swears it makes them sick, or you yourself might steer clear of foods unless they have that 'no added MSG' label.

Norman and Tegan explain why the bad PR around MSG has more to do with shonky research and misconceptions than the ingredient itself.

References:

• MSG in food - Food Standards Australia and New Zealand
• A review of the alleged health hazards of monosodium glutamate
• Monosodium glutamate sensitivity in asthma
• Chinese-Restaurant Syndrome - New England Journal of Medicine