No, MSG (Monosodium Glutamate), aka Ajinomoto, is not banned in India. It is still being sold and used in India as usual, though the FSSAI is regulating its use and keeping an eye on it.
What Exactly Is MSG?
Firstly, it is essential to understand what MSG is. MSG means Monosodium Glutamate, one of the amino acids is glutamic acid, which is the one that makes the compound. Besides, glutamate is found in the listed food products and some more, such as tomatoes, cheese, mushrooms, and meat broths; however, these are not artificially added, that is, they are produced in a natural way.
In a nutshell, MSG is the reason why food gets its “umami” taste. This is the very taste that is responsible for the “richer and more satisfying” aspect of soups, snacks, or sauces.
What Does Indian Law Say About MSG?
FSSAI is the one that has the highest control over food safety in India, and we all know it by this point. As per their norms, MSG is a food additive allowed, and it is registered under the code INS 621. Just so you know, it clearly states that companies and brands are allowed to add MSG in particular food items, provided they abide by the purity criteria and the amount specifications. Apart from that, they are obliged to have the names “Monosodium Glutamate” or “INS 621” indicated on the package in a prominent place so that the buyers are aware of the addition.
In addition, the fact is still referred to the food packaging. Several products of food are labeled with “No MSG” or “No Added MSG” as a point-of-sale claim. If MSG is found in a laboratory analysis of the product, the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) can issue a notice. The difficult part here is that glutamate is a naturally occurring compound in several foods, and hence, labs are required to ascertain whether it is from a natural or a synthetic source.
Santosh Kumar is a Professional SEO and Blogger, With the help of this blog he is trying to share top 10 lists, facts, entertainment news from India and all around the world.
