>
>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.
>
>
>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.
>
>