Is monosodium glutamate (MSG) really safe in our food?

Ever since we heard local reports regarding the alleged harmful effects of monosodium glutamate (MSG) in our health, my mom and relatives started decreasing our intake of this additive gradually. In fact, it's been years since we have done this. At this moment, we rarely use msg in our meals anymore. Aside from steering clear of harmful elements, we're also cutting on costs somehow by eliminating this in the ingredients. Some people who are regularly using this flavoring, aside from the local manufacturers, claim that this came from fish. We all know that fish is one healthy substance we need in our diet. Although it stll hasn't been proven yet and the stuff isn't banned in the market at all, we'd like to take precautionary measures as early as possible; although there are still some situations when we couldn't possibly avoid eating foods with this stuff; particularly when we are served in restaurants, public places, and parties or gatherings. Now that the holiday season is fast approaching, and festivities and foods galore are a sure sight in almost every table, I guess we really can't avoid having msg in our system once in a while. Happy holidays!

I really believe that MSG is bad for us. If I eat a lot of something that has MSG in it I always wind up getting a migraine later that day. I try my hardest to buy foods without it in it. Even canned soup has MSG.

I have a hard time figuring out what to believe when it comes to MSG. As you said, there have been many scientific studies to determine the effects of the flavor enhancer, but there are results for both sides of the issue. I think the best option for you if you are afraid of the effects of MSG is to try organic foods. Organic foods do not contain the chemicals and preservatives that are in most of the foods that we eat. It is hard to judge the long term effects of organic foods because they have come into popularity more recently, but I do believe that they will be a healthier option when it comes to food.