Glutamate

Caution

Flavor Enhancer

Glutamate is a non-essential amino acid found naturally in many protein-containing foods and is also used as a flavor enhancer in processed foods.

What is Glutamate?

Glutamate, often referred to as L-glutamate, is a non-essential amino acid that naturally occurs in many protein-rich foods such as meat, fish, dairy, and some vegetables. It plays a crucial role in human metabolism and serves as a neurotransmitter in the brain. In the food industry, glutamate is commonly used in its salt form, monosodium glutamate (MSG), as a flavor enhancer to impart umami taste in foods.

Also known as:

L-glutamateMonosodium Glutamate (MSG)

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Diet Compatibility

Corn FreeCaution

Glutamate is a non-essential amino acid found in all protein-containing foods. This ingredient may include corn; please contact the manufacturer for details.

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Alpha-Gal FriendlySafe

This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Alphagal diet.

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Barley FreeSafe

This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Barley Free diet.

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Dairy FreeSafe

This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Dairy Free diet.

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Egg FreeSafe

This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Egg Free diet.

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Fish FreeSafe

This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Fish Free diet.

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Garlic FreeSafe

This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Garlic Free diet.

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GERD FriendlySafe

This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Gerd diet.

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Gluten FreeSafe

This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Gluten Free diet.

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Lactose FreeSafe

This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Lactose Free diet.

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Low FODMAPSafe

This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Fodmap diet.

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Lupin FreeSafe

This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Lupin Free diet.

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Milk FreeSafe

This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Milk Free diet.

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Nightshade FreeSafe

This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Nightshades diet.

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Oat FreeSafe

This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Oat Free diet.

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Onion FreeSafe

This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Onion Free diet.

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Peanut FreeSafe

This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Peanut Free diet.

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PescatarianSafe

This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Pescatarian diet.

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Rye FreeSafe

This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Rye Free diet.

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Sesame FreeSafe

This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Sesame Free diet.

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Shellfish FreeSafe

This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Shell Fish Free diet.

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Soy FreeSafe

This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Soy Free diet.

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Tree Nut FreeSafe

This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Tree Nut Free diet.

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VeganSafe

This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Vegan diet.

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VegetarianSafe

This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Vegetarian diet.

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Wheat FreeSafe

This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Wheat Free diet.

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Compatibility ratings are general guidelines and may vary by individual. Always consult a healthcare professional for personalized dietary advice.

Why People Avoid Glutamate

People may avoid glutamate due to concerns about its potential to cause adverse reactions, such as headaches or allergic responses, often associated with its salt form, MSG. Additionally, some individuals following a corn-free diet might avoid it due to the possibility of it being derived from corn sources in processed foods. It is advisable for individuals with corn allergies or sensitivities to contact manufacturers for specific ingredient sourcing details.

Potential Reactions

  • Headache
  • Nausea
  • Sweating
  • Flushing

This information is for educational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Individual reactions can vary. Consult a healthcare professional if you have concerns about specific ingredients.

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Foods That Commonly Contain Glutamate

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Frequently Asked Questions

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