Chinese Restaurant Syndrome – Are Flavour Enhancers Really Making People Sick?

Have you ever heard of “Chinese Restaurant Syndrome”? It’s a set of symptoms that some people associate with consuming monosodium glutamate (MSG). Reports suggest that after eating MSG-containing foods, individuals may experience headaches, dizziness, nausea, heart palpitations, or numbness in the face and neck. Some even claim that, in the long run, MSG increases the risk of obesity and other food intolerances. But are flavour enhancers really to blame?

MSG has been used for decades to enhance the taste of food. While many people report sensitivity to it, scientific research has found no clear evidence that MSG is actually harmful to health. Both the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and European health authorities have classified MSG as safe for consumption.

This compound is commonly found in bouillon cubes, spice blends, processed and ready-to-eat foods, chips, cold cuts, soft drinks, and soy-based products. Interestingly, MSG also occurs naturally in foods like tomatoes, cheese, and mushrooms—foods that have been consumed for centuries without reports of similar symptoms.

Have you ever experienced symptoms like these? Do you think flavour enhancers should be avoided? Do you check ingredient labels, or do you think the concern is exaggerated?

💬 Share your thoughts in the comments! 👇

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