MSG Has More Than One Name

MSG is a controversial food additive used to enhance the flavor of many processed foods. From what I can tell, MSG does not affect me, but it gives my husband headaches. As reported by Julie's Health Club, some complain of chest pains or a rapid heartbeat, too.

Did you know MSG:

• is comprised of the amino acid glutamic acid (glutamate for short), sodium and water?
• has triggered a soup war? Campbell's Soup removed MSG from some of its soups, then started the war by launching an ad campaign against MSG-containing rival Progresso soups. Of course, MSG-removal had been in the works at Progresso, so they fired back with advertising pointing out many Campbell's products still contain MSG. Nothing like truth in advertising.
• there are two types of MSG? 'Naturally bound' MSG is found in savory foods like meat, tomatoes and mushrooms. The controversy is actually over 'free' glutamates, which are extracted from foods, industrially-processed and added to many packaged foods (e.g. Doritos). Some say it's the free glutamates that trigger bad reactions, not the natural glutamates. All I know is I ate way too many tasty orange triangles in high school.
  
• does not have to be listed on a food label (per the FDA) if it is part of another ingredient? MSG may be in there, but with this black hole loophole you won't find it on the label.
• has a load of secret identities? It's also called vegetable protein extract, autolyzed yeast and sodium caseinate, to name a few. Check out an extensive list over at MSG Myth.

Do you experience negative reactions to MSG?