Have you ever found yourself stuck on a crossword puzzle clue that asks for an ingredient commonly used in Chinese cuisine? Well, the answer might just be “MSG”! But what exactly is MSG, and what foods can it be found in? In this article, we’ll decode the crossword puzzle clue “What has MSG in it?” and provide you with a comprehensive guide to this controversial ingredient.
Introduction: What is MSG?
MSG, or monosodium glutamate, is a flavor enhancer commonly used in processed foods, particularly in Chinese cuisine. What Has MSG in It Crossword It is a white crystalline powder that dissolves easily in water and has a savory, umami taste. MSG is made up of glutamic acid and sodium, and it is chemically similar to the glutamate that naturally occurs in many foods.
History of MSG
MSG was first discovered in 1908 by a Japanese scientist named Kikunae Ikeda, who noticed that the broth made from kombu seaweed had a unique, savory taste. He identified the compound responsible for this taste as glutamic acid and named it “umami,” which means “delicious” or “savory” in Japanese. In the years following Ikeda’s discovery, MSG became a popular ingredient in Japanese and Chinese cuisine and was eventually introduced to the Western world.
How is MSG made?
MSG is made through a fermentation process that involves breaking down starches or sugars into glutamic acid. The glutamic acid is then combined with sodium to form MSG. The fermentation process can be carried out using a variety of sources, including molasses, sugar cane, corn, or beets.
Why is MSG used in food?
MSG is used in food as a flavor enhancer, helping to bring out the natural flavors of food and make them taste more savory. It is particularly popular in Chinese cuisine, where it is used in dishes such as stir-fries, soups, and marinades. MSG is also commonly used in processed foods, such as canned soups, snack foods, and frozen dinners, to enhance their flavor.
Controversy surrounding MSG
MSG has been the subject of controversy for many years, with some people claiming that it causes a range of health problems, including headaches, nausea, and dizziness. However, scientific research has not been able to establish a clear link between MSG consumption and these symptoms. Some people may be sensitive to MSG and experience symptoms when consuming large amounts of it, but this is relatively rare.
MSG in Chinese cuisine
MSG is a key ingredient in many Chinese dishes, and it is often added to stir-fries, soups, and marinades to enhance their flavor. Some traditional Chinese recipes call for the use of MSG, while others do not. If you are concerned about consuming MSG, it is worth asking about its use in the dishes you are ordering at Chinese restaurants.
Other foods that contain MSG
MSG can be found in a wide variety of processed foods, including canned soups, snack foods, and frozen dinners. It is also sometimes used as a seasoning in restaurant cooking. When reading food labels, look out for ingredients such as hydrolyzed vegetable protein, autolyzed yeast extract, and sodium caseinate, which can all contain MSG.
