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E620Flavor enhancerLow concern
Glutamic Acid
In plain words
The short version
The free acid of glutamate — the parent compound of MSG and the umami-receptor activator itself.
Why it's green
It's widely considered safe at the amounts used in food, so we mark it green. The Safety section below has the details.
Safety profile
No ADI specified by JECFA. The most abundant amino acid in the human diet and an essential neurotransmitter. The 'Chinese Restaurant Syndrome' from the 1960s has not been confirmed in controlled studies. Rare individuals report sensitivity at high doses.
The detail
Educational information only. Not medical or dietary advice.