Ingredient Guide

🇪🇺 Monosodium Glutamate (MSG) on Food Labels in EU

Monosodium Glutamate (MSG) is permitted with proper declaration in European Union: declare as "monosodium glutamate (E621)" in the ingredient list.

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What the Rule Is

Sodium salt of glutamic acid, used to enhance savory (umami) flavors in processed foods. In European Union, Monosodium Glutamate (MSG) is regulated under FIC Regulation 1169/2011 as a food flavor-enhancer. Must be declared by functional class and specific name: "flavour enhancer (E621)" or "flavour enhancer: monosodium glutamate (E621)". Unlike yeast extract, added MSG must be declared specifically. It is not sufficient to hide it under "flavourings".

What You Must Include

Declare as "monosodium glutamate (E621)" in the ingredient list
Declare with functional class: "flavor enhancer" and E-number E621
Review all compound ingredients for hidden sources
Cross-check all compound ingredients and sub-ingredients for hidden sources

Common Violations

Incorrect or missing declaration name — must use "monosodium glutamate (E621)"
Using an ambiguous or abbreviated name that does not identify Monosodium Glutamate (MSG)
Omitting the E-number E621 where required
Not updating the label after recipe changes involving this ingredient
Failing to check compound ingredients for hidden Monosodium Glutamate (MSG) content

Examples: Compliant vs Non-Compliant

Compliant Examples

"flavor enhancer: monosodium glutamate (E621)"

"monosodium glutamate (E621)" in ingredient list

Full ingredient line: "Ingredients: ... monosodium glutamate (E621) ..."

Non-Compliant Examples

Using a synonym (Sodium glutamate, E621) without the approved declaration name

Ingredient list with "Monosodium Glutamate (MSG)" without functional class or E-number

"Natural [ingredient category]" without specific name where specific name is required

How LabelGuard Checks This

LabelGuard scans your label for Monosodium Glutamate (MSG) and all its common names (Monosodium glutamate, Sodium glutamate, E621, MSG) to verify correct declaration, required E-numbers, and proper functional class labeling under EU rules.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How must Monosodium Glutamate (MSG) be declared on food labels in EU?

Declare as "monosodium glutamate (E621)" in the ingredient list. Must be declared by functional class and specific name: "flavour enhancer (E621)" or "flavour enhancer: monosodium glutamate (E621)". Unlike yeast extract, added MSG must be declared specifically. It is not sufficient to hide it under "flavourings".

What are the common synonyms and hidden sources of Monosodium Glutamate (MSG)?

Monosodium Glutamate (MSG) may appear under the following names: Monosodium glutamate, Sodium glutamate, E621, MSG, Glutamate. Common hidden sources include: Instant noodles, Crisps/chips, Soups, Seasonings, Fast food, Soy sauce, Some cheeses (naturally occurring).

Is Monosodium Glutamate (MSG) banned or restricted in any market?

Monosodium Glutamate (MSG) is permitted in all major markets with proper declaration.

Regulation Sources

Last updated: 2026-04-01

Disclaimer: This information is for guidance only and does not constitute legal advice. Always consult official regulations and seek professional legal advice for specific compliance questions.

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