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As more folks come to appreciate MSG as the plant-based, umami-bomb ingredient that it is, change is still slow. MSG is still most commonly found in places like fast food menus.

The addition of MSG in foods is “generally recognized as safe,” says the FDA site. MSG is found in Chinese cuisine -- but also in tomatoes, cheese, canned soup, and a range of foods.

Experts say MSG can enhance the so-called umami flavor of a food. The ingredient is found in everything from Chinese food and pizza to prepackaged sandwiches and table sauces.

Also, plenty of foods contain natural MSG in the form of an amino acid called glutamic acid, like soy sauce, parmigiano, and even yogurt, so folks are eating a lot more MSG than they even realize.

Still, MSG is classified by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) as a safe food ingredient, but personally, I feel the jury’s still out on that one.

What food science actually reveals. Despite its controversial reputation, major food safety authorities have extensively studied MSG and classified it as safe for general consumption.

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The food additive is actually present in a vast array of everyday foods. "MSG is often added to processed foods like soy sauce, instant noodles, canned soup, salad dressing, crackers and chips ...

The addition of MSG in foods is “generally recognized as safe,” says the FDA site. MSG is found in Chinese cuisine -- but also in tomatoes, cheese, canned soup, and a range of foods.