Is Monosodium Glutamate vegetarian?

Monosodium glutamate (MSG) is the sodium salt of glutamic acid, used as a flavour enhancer. It is produced commercially via bacterial fermentation of carbohydrate sources such as molasses or starch with ammonium salts, though it was originally isolated from seaweed.

An ingredient is considered vegetarian if it avoids components derived from killing an animal.

Classifications are made to the best of our knowledge based on available scientific and regulatory sources. We cannot guarantee the accuracy of every entry, errors in the sources we draw from can always occur. This tool also cannot account for cross-contamination, which depends entirely on individual suppliers and producers. If you believe a classification is incorrect, you can report an issue.