<<Disclaimer:  Verify this information before applying it to your situation.>>

The following is an excerpt from the Summer 1993 newsletter of the NOMSG
group. It is copyrighted by the National Organization Mobilized to Stop
Glutamate. They may be reached at: P.O. Box 367, Santa Fe, NM 87504 or
800-BEATMSG (800-232-8674). Membership is $25 per year.


Back to Basics

  Once again we'd like to cover the most commonly used aliases for MSG
and MSG-containing compounds, and also present some of the less familiar
terms that manufacturers have begun using.

  Carrageenan: Can have pure MSG added to it or hydrolyzed milk
protein, and then is labeled simply as "carrageenan". This substance on
its own has no protein, and therefore no MSG. It is used for the slimy
or smooth feel in food items.

  Maltodextrin: Presently being researched. This is a hydrolyzed corn
starch. There is a possibility that it is either contaminated with MSG
in its manufacture process, or that MSG is added to it. We will keep
you posted. If, however, you've been unable to trace a suspicious MSG
reaction, check the product for maltodextrin.

  Hydrolyzed Protein: This applies to any hydrolyzed protein, be it
animal protein, plant protein or milk protein (also called caseinate).
Not only does it have a small amount of MSG created naturally in the
chemical process, but manufacturers may also add pure MSG without
designating so on the label. Used primarily for flavoring, but
occasionally to increase the protein content (especially in meats).

  Autolyzed Yeast: Yeast is put through a chemical process which
releases MSG, similar to hydrolysis. In addition, pure MSG may be added
without designating so on the label. Used for flavoring.

  Yeast Extract: Similar to Autolyzed yeast.

  Natural Flavors (Flavorings): Both autolyzed yeast and hydrolyzed
protein are permitted to be labeled under this category. Not all labels
stating Natural Flavors mean that MSG-containing substances have been
used. The consumer must proceed at his/her own risk.

  Malt Extract: May contain small amounts of MSG. We are researching
this.

  Sodium Caseinate: The sodium salt of a hydrolyzed milk protein. Will
contain MSG.

  Calcium Caseinate: The calcium portion of a hydrolyzed protein. Will
contain MSG.

  Virtually all broth, bouillon, and flavors (i.e. turkey flavor) will
contain MSG in some fashion.

  Whey Protein Concentrate: Some do contain MSG in the form of
hydrolyzed milk proteins, others claim to be free from MSG. We advise
avoiding all sources of whey protein concentrate.

  Spices: FDA regulations do not allow pure MSG to be put under this
label designation, while the USDA does (particularly in sausage
seasonings).  Occasionlly spice blends are used that contain MSG.
Consumer beware.

  Seasonings: See spices above.

  Kombu extract: MSG extracted from kombu seaweed (one of the first
methods of MSG production).

  Ajinomoto: Trade name of the Japanese manufacturer of MSG, you may
use this name in Japanese restaurants.

  Recently, dairy products have become of great concern. Milks such as
skim milk or protein fortified milk may well contain caseinate. Most
sour creams and creams (including half-and-half) contain carrageenan or
caseinate.  Margarines and butters are difficult because of the
"standard of identity" rules allowing manufacturers to add ingredients
without labeling. Cheeses recently have been brought to our attention
for causing some reactions.  We recommend using blocks of cheese rather
than the shredded variety. If eating out be sure they use real cheese.

  Meats are also becoming a problem. We have discovered extra-lean
ground beef adulterated with carrageenan. In addition we have had
continuing reports of reactions related to pork and chicken. If you
have information regarding processing of these please let us know.

  Fish is generally safe, but be sure to wash it thoroughly before
cooking to remove sulfites or preservatives. Of course, breaded fish
(or fish sticks) are very likely to contain some form of MSG.

  The following are possible sources of MSG. We advise members to use
these ingredients with extreme caution.

    Barley Malt
    Textured Soy Protein
   [Textured Soy Flour]
    Soy Extract
    Smoke Flavor
    Whipping Agents
    Dough Conditioners
    Whey Protein

  Also, those who are MSG sensitive are advised to avoid aspartame
(NutraSweet). Refer to Jack Samuel's "For Better or For Worse" column
[elsewhere in same issue] for details on how aspartame and glutamate
act on the brain in similar fashions.

  It will be helpful to keep this list with you; not only to share with
other people, but to assist you when eating out or grocery shopping.

  This list is by no means complete. Manufacturers are daily creating
new ways to poison you in the food you are purchasing to nourish
yourself and your family. However, this should help to answer many of
your questions about MSG containing products and ingredients. So please
refer to this list often and repeatedly since we are presently short
staffed and unable to immediately answer everyone's questions.


[log in to unmask], New York, NY
BondCalc Corporation, Tel: 212.587.0097, Fax: 212.587.9142