Glutamic Acid
Flavor Enhancer
Glutamic Acid at a glance
- Category
- Flavor Enhancer
- Also called
- L-glutamic acid, E620, 620, Glutamic
- Commonly found in
- Processed meats, Cheese, Soy sauce, Tomato products
- Diets reviewed
- 26 diets
What is Glutamic Acid?
Glutamic acid, often referred to as L-glutamic acid or E620, is a non-essential amino acid that plays a crucial role in protein synthesis and is commonly used in food as a flavor enhancer. It is naturally present in a variety of foods, including meats, dairy products, and some vegetables. In the food industry, it is often used to enhance flavors, particularly the umami taste, which is one of the five basic tastes.
Also known as:
Diet Compatibility
Glutamic acid (also called e620) is an amino acid found in both plants and animals. If the label does not provide a source, we recommend calling the manufacturer.
Learn more →Glutamic acid (e620) is an amino acid found in both plants and animals. If the label does not provide a source, we recommend calling the manufacturer.
Learn more →Glutamic acid (e620) is an amino acid found in both plants and animals. If the label does not provide a source, we recommend calling the manufacturer.
Learn more →Glutamic acid (also called e620) is an amino acid found in both plants and animals. If the label does not provide a source, we recommend calling the manufacturer.
Learn more →This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Barley Free diet.
Learn more →This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Corn Free diet.
Learn more →This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Dairy Free diet.
Learn more →This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Egg Free diet.
Learn more →This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Fish Free diet.
Learn more →This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Garlic Free diet.
Learn more →This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Gerd diet.
Learn more →This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Gluten Free diet.
Learn more →This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Lactose Free diet.
Learn more →This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Fodmap diet.
Learn more →This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Lupin Free diet.
Learn more →This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Milk Free diet.
Learn more →This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Nightshades diet.
Learn more →This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Oat Free diet.
Learn more →This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Onion Free diet.
Learn more →This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Peanut Free diet.
Learn more →This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Rye Free diet.
Learn more →This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Sesame Free diet.
Learn more →This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Shell Fish Free diet.
Learn more →This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Soy Free diet.
Learn more →This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Tree Nut Free diet.
Learn more →This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Wheat Free diet.
Learn more →Compatibility ratings are general guidelines and may vary by individual. Always consult a healthcare professional for personalized dietary advice.
Why People Avoid Glutamic Acid
People may avoid glutamic acid due to dietary restrictions such as veganism, since it can be derived from both plant and animal sources. Without explicit labeling of the source, it is difficult to determine if the glutamic acid is vegan-friendly. Additionally, some individuals may seek to avoid additives in general or have sensitivities to glutamates.
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.
Foods That Commonly Contain Glutamic Acid
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How Spoonful reviews ingredients
- Evidence-based. Diet compatibility ratings are compiled from peer-reviewed nutrition guidance, dietary association recommendations, and ingredient composition data.
- Continuously updated. Our ingredient database is refreshed as new sources and product data become available.
- Transparent uncertainty. When an ingredient's safety depends on serving size, preparation, or sub-ingredients, we mark it “caution” rather than forcing a binary answer.
- Not medical advice. Ratings are general guidance. Always consult a registered dietitian for personalized recommendations.
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