Glycine

Flavor Enhancer

Glycine at a glance

Category: Flavor Enhancer
Also called: E640, 640
Commonly found in: flavored beverages, protein supplements, processed meats, soups
Diets reviewed: 26 diets

What is Glycine?

Glycine is a non-essential amino acid, meaning the body can synthesize it from other chemicals. It is the simplest amino acid with a single hydrogen atom as its side chain. Glycine is utilized in food products as a flavor enhancer and is often listed as E640 in ingredient lists. It is found naturally in protein-rich foods and can be derived from both animal and plant sources, which is important to consider for those following a vegan diet.

Also known as:

E640640

Diet Compatibility

VeganCaution

Glycine is an amino acid that comes from both animal and plant sources. If the label does not provide a source, we recommend calling the manufacturer.

PescatarianCaution

Glycine is an amino acid that comes from both animal and plant sources. If the label does not provide a source, we recommend calling the manufacturer.

VegetarianCaution

Glycine is an amino acid that comes from both animal and plant sources. If the label does not provide a source, we recommend calling the manufacturer.

Alpha-Gal FriendlyCaution

Glycine is an amino acid that comes from both animal and plant sources. If the label does not provide a source, we recommend calling the manufacturer.

Barley FreeSafe

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

Corn FreeSafe

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

Dairy FreeSafe

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

Egg FreeSafe

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

Fish FreeSafe

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

Garlic FreeSafe

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

GERD FriendlySafe

This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Gerd diet.

Gluten FreeSafe

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

Lactose FreeSafe

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

Low FODMAPSafe

This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Fodmap diet.

Lupin FreeSafe

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

Milk FreeSafe

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

Nightshade FreeSafe

This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Nightshades diet.

Oat FreeSafe

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

Onion FreeSafe

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

Peanut FreeSafe

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

Rye FreeSafe

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

Sesame FreeSafe

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

Shellfish FreeSafe

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

Soy FreeSafe

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

Tree Nut FreeSafe

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

Wheat FreeSafe

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

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

Why People Avoid Glycine

People may choose to avoid glycine if they are following a strict vegan diet and the source of the glycine is not clearly labeled, as it can be derived from animal sources. Additionally, individuals with specific amino acid imbalances or metabolic disorders might avoid excessive intake of glycine.

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 Glycine

flavored beverages protein supplements processed meats soups

Browse products that match your diet.

Explore Products

Frequently Asked Questions

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.

Take the Guesswork Out of Grocery Shopping

Join thousands who use Spoonful to find foods that match their dietary needs.

Get Spoonful — It's Free

Scan Foods with Spoonful