monosodium glutamate

monosodium glutamate: see glutamic acid.

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monosodium glutamate (MSG)

White crystalline substance, a sodium salt of the amino acid glutamic acid. MSG is used to intensify the natural flavour of meats and vegetables. It elicits a unique taste, called in Japan umami, different from the four basic tastes. Originally derived from seaweed and first used in Japan in 1908, it has become a common ingredient in Chinese and Japanese cooking. MSG in large amounts may have physical effects, including an allergic reaction commonly called “Chinese restaurant syndrome.”

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monosodium glutamate

a white crystalline substance, the sodium salt of glutamic acid, that has little flavour itself but enhances the flavour of proteins either by increasing the amount of saliva produced in the mouth or by stimulating the taste buds: used as a food additive, esp in Chinese foods. Formula: NaC₅H₈O₄