Monosodium glutamate market

The global monosodium glutamate market size is expected to witness potential gains in the future and register a significant CAGR of 4.3% over the forecast period (2019 - 2027).

Market Overview

Monosodium glutamate (MSG), also known as sodium glutamate is a flavor enhancer commonly added to Chinese food, canned vegetables, soups and processed meats. The sodium salt of glutamic acid is naturally found in a range of food sources, including seaweed, soy sauce, parmesan cheese, tomatoes, and breast milk. MSG gives a special aroma to processed foods that can be termed as ‘savory’, also known as umami in Japanese. The flavor enhancer also helps to reduce the sodium content in food.

Market Dynamics

The major driver propelling growth of the global monosodium glutamate market is increasing demand for MSG from the food and beverages industry. Moreover, increasing number of restaurants is also expected to drive growth of the market. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has given MSG its generally recognized as safe (GRAS) designation. MSG is used as a common seasoning in Chinese restaurants. Ajinomoto, a MSG-based condiment is widely used in restaurants worldwide to enhance flavor with an umami taste.     

However, general misconception about side effects such as headaches and other feelings of discomfort due to MSG is expected to hinder the market growth. Many products and restaurants claim “no added MSG” due to the consumer demand for products without MSG. However, researchers have found no definitive evidence of a link between MSG and these symptoms.

Market Outlook

On the basis of region, the global monosodium glutamate market is segmented into North America, Latin America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Africa, and Middle East. Asia Pacific is expected to hold dominant position in the market over the forecast period. China is a major producer and consumer of MSG. Increasing consumption of packaged food and growing restaurant industry is a major factor boosting market share of India.

The market in North America is expected to witness restricted growth, owing to increasing number of regulations to control the use of MSG in the region. However, no significant evidence regarding alleged side effects of MSG is expected to contribute to the market growth in the region to some extent. The market in Middle East is majorly driven by high number of restaurants and growing tourism industry in the region.

Key Players

Some of the major players operating in the global monosodium glutamate market include, E. I. du Pont de Nemours and Company, Ajinomoto, Co., Inc., Qingdao Century Minghui Co., Ltd., and Korai Enterprises