How is MSG Produced?

Monosodium glutamate(MSG), a popular food additive, is mostly found in Asian cuisines. Initially isolated in 1908, MSG features a savory umami taste. It acts as a taste intensifier, adding indigenous flavors to many Asian dishes. Explore more about MSG, including the safety of MSG, how MSG is produced, how to use MSG and more.

Is MSG Safe?

A few common misconceptions exist about how MSG is produced, its effects, and more. Some people believe MSG can cause headaches or other issues. However, well-controlled scientific studies show otherwise. Large, rigorous studies by international bodies found no correlation between MSG intake and those symptoms in most people. 

The FDA classifies MSG as “Generally Recognized as Safe’ as a food ingredient (link). It does not restrict MSG quantities, and numerous medical literature reviews have been unable to find definitive evidence that MSG routinely causes harm. The evidence regarding how MSG is produced suggests its safety profile is excellent for most of the population.

How Is Monosodium Glutamate Made?

MSG typically goes through a fermentation process until it is finally made. Here are the key ingredients and manufacturing steps involved:

Key Ingredients

Monosodium glutamate (MSG) is from glutamic acid. This amino acid can be found in our bodies and various foods and food additives.

Manufacturing Steps

1. Fermentation

First, the sugarcane is extracted as glucose. Then, it is sent to a fermentation tank. The selected bacteria are cultured in a nutrient-rich medium. These microbes consume the glucose, releasing glutamic acid.

2. Extraction

Later, separate the mixture to remove solid bacterial cells and other impurities. The resulting liquid, containing glutamic acid, is treated with an acid to form a salt. After this step, monosodium glutamate is preliminarily produced.

3. Purification

The monosodium glutamate is then purified through crystallization. The solution is cooled, and crystals of MSG are formed. Separate the crystals from the remaining liquid via filtration.

4. Drying

The separated crystals are dried to remove any remaining moisture, and the final product is generated. It is a fine, white, crystalline powder.

5. Quality Control

The final product undergoes quality control measures to meet food safety standards and comply with regulatory requirements.

How to Use Monosodium Glutamate

MSG has become a celebrated cooking tool. Some tips regarding its use include:

1.Upgrade Marinades and Sauces

Add MSG to sauces, dressings, or marinades to intensify natural meaty and savory notes. In this way, you don’t need to use extra salt. It enhances umami bombs like tomatoes, mushrooms, and soy sauce.

2.Balancing Flavors in Soups and Broths

MSG can lift the savory depth of soups and boost the essence of bones, veggies, and herbs in broths. Use it to cut back on salt without losing full-bodied taste.

3.Elevate Stir-Fries and Asian Cuisine

MSG accentuates the natural savory profile of stir-fried meats, seafood, and vegetables. Employ it in moderation in marinades for teriyaki chicken or Kung Pao shrimp.

4.Fine-tuning Vegetarian and Vegan Dishes

Sprinkle a bit of MSG on lentils, beans, tofu, or vegetables. It boosts satisfaction without meat. It’s great for filling plant-based meals.

JOLION Foods - Your Trusted MSG Manufacturer

JOLION Foods is one of the leading manufacturers of sauces, including MSG. Our modern facility houses several production lines and employs stringent quality protocols. As a major OEM supplier, we offer a vast array of authentic Asian sauces for food service and retail clients globally.

For those wondering how MSG is produced, MSG at JOLION Foods is produced through a carefully controlled process, ensuring purity and potency. It delivers savory excellence to dishes without artificial flavors or preservatives. Furthermore, our rigorous product testing and certifications like BRC, FDA, and HALAL give customers peace of mind. Committed to innovation, we regularly unveil new sauce varieties tailored to evolving tastes. Backed by excellent service and reliable logistics, we are a top MSG manufacturer and a premier partner for any company’s Asian sauce needs.

Conclusion

Overall, MSG has stood the test of time as a trusted flavor enhancer for foods due to its ability to intensify and round out natural tastes. While how MSG is produced requires precision, today’s automated facilities ensure consistent high quality. For reliable, great-tasting sauces and foods, including MSG, you can choose JOLION Foods as your supplier partner. Visit our website to browse all of our offerings.