Are seasoning cubes or MSG healthier for you?

Which is better for your health, MSG or bouillon cubes? Both MSG and bouillon cubes are flavor enhancers that make food taste better, but when it comes to their impact on health, which one is superior?

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To enhance the flavor of dishes, people often use MSG or bouillon cubes. These familiar seasonings make the taste of food more “savory” and enjoyable. However, there is much debate surrounding their effects and which seasoning is better for health, and which one to choose for regular use.

MSG or bouillon cubes: Which one is better for health?


MSG or bouillon cubes: Which one is better for health? That is the question many people ask. (Photo: AllTop)

MSG is produced from sugar cane, grain starch… Whereas bouillon cubes are made from various ingredients, in particular, MSG, along with other flavoring agents and a very small amount of meat extract.

In the book Health and Family – Medical Publishing House, Professor Pham Van Khoi (Vietnam Institute of Chemistry) stated that the indispensable ingredient of bouillon cubes is MSG (flavor enhancer 621) and two flavor enhancers 627, 631, which are 10-15 times sweeter than regular MSG. Currently, all three flavor enhancers 621, 627, 631 are listed in the additives that are permitted for use in food.

According to this expert’s analysis, the sweet taste of bouillon cubes comes from the flavor enhancers, not from meat or bones as advertised: “There may also be some ingredients in bouillon cubes such as bone broth, shrimp powder, chicken powder, straw mushrooms… but they are insignificant, only less than 5%. Therefore, housewives must remember that bouillon cubes cannot replace nutritional products.”

On the other hand, MSG is purely a flavor enhancer, so it has no nutritional value. According to Professor Khoi, both MSG and bouillon cubes help create a pleasant and less harmful sweet taste if used in moderation.

Meanwhile, Associate Professor Dr. Nguyen Thi Lam (former Deputy Director of the Vietnam National Institute of Nutrition) stated that both MSG and bouillon cubes are still licensed by the International Food Standards Commission, which proves that they are completely safe for humans when used in the appropriate doses.

So which one is better for health, bouillon cubes or MSG? According to Professor Khoi, many people have prejudices against MSG and only use bouillon cubes because they think it is made from meat and therefore healthier, without causing allergies like MSG. However, the main ingredient of bouillon cubes is MSG and other flavor enhancers in the group of sweeteners, so those who are allergic to MSG also need to be cautious when using bouillon cubes.


Both bouillon cubes and MSG only serve as flavor enhancers and do not provide any nutritional value. (Photo: Naganic)

Whether to use bouillon cubes or MSG depends on personal habits and preferences. Regardless of the type used, you should choose products with clear labels and origins, and avoid buying those without any label or origin just because they are cheap. These unregulated products may contain harmful substances.

When using MSG, it should be noted that normal cooking temperatures do not cause MSG to transform into harmful substances. However, if using MSG to marinate grilled dishes, you should grill at temperatures below 250 degrees Celsius. At higher temperatures, MSG can turn into harmful substances for the body.

Source: VTC news

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Frequently asked questions

No, they are not the same. Seasoning cubes are a blend of ingredients, including MSG, salt, spices, and other additives. MSG (Monosodium Glutamate) is a single ingredient that is often used as a flavor enhancer.

MSG is a naturally occurring substance that can be found in many foods, such as tomatoes and cheese. However, the MSG used in processed foods is often created through a fermentation process in a lab, so it is considered artificial.

While both can be used to add flavor to food, seasoning cubes tend to be high in sodium and other additives. MSG, on the other hand, is purely a flavor enhancer and does not add any additional sodium or calories. As such, MSG is often considered the healthier option.

People use seasoning cubes or MSG to enhance the flavor of their food. Seasoning cubes can add a boost of flavor to dishes, while MSG can enhance the natural flavors of a dish, making it taste more savory and delicious.

While MSG is generally considered safe for most people, some individuals may experience sensitivity to MSG and may exhibit symptoms such as headaches, nausea, or flushing. However, these reactions are rare and typically mild.

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