This week Reactions is look at science and chemistry to let you know if MSG is bad for you. Few ingredients come with as much baggage as MSG. Otherwise known as monosodium glutamate, the compound has had a bad reputation for nearly 50 years, so we at Reactions felt it was time to clear its name. In this video, we debunk MSG myths and explain why the scientific consensus is that this flavor enhancer, known for its savory umami flavor, is perfectly safe for the vast majority of people.

For more on MSG’s undeserved reputation, check out this great infographic from our friends at Compound Interest: http://www.compoundchem.com/2014/08/25/msg

More reading on MSG’s undeserved bad rep:

http://www.npr.org/blogs/thesalt/2013/11/17/245728214/msg-seasoned-for-a-comeback
http://www.smithsonianmag.com/arts-culture/its-the-umami-stupid-why-the-truth-about-msg-is-so-easy-to-swallow-180947626/?no-ist
http://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-living/nutrition-and-healthy-eating/expert-answers/monosodium-glutamate/faq-20058196
http://www.nytimes.com/2008/03/05/dining/05glute.html
http://www.theguardian.com/lifeandstyle/2005/jul/10/foodanddrink.features3

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CC Music by Pure Natural

Like this episode? Check out these other Reactions episodes on common compounds:

The Science of Caffeine: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VJw8r_YWJ9k
How does Tylenol Work? The Truth Is, We Don’t Know… https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VJw8r_YWJ9k

Leave your chemistry questions in the comments!