E621
flavor enhancersMonosodium Glutamate/MSG
What should I do with this product?
Safe to buy. This additive is permissible under Islamic dietary law.
See which foods use it →Avoid this code. Check halal alternatives or scan a substitute product.
Scan a substitute product →About E621
Miscellaneous - flavour enhancers. Suitable for vegetarian label on the package indicates the source of monosodium glutamate is from vegetable protein or it has to be under Halal or kosher certification. In USA/canada it is kosher certified and meet the Halal requirements. Monosodium glutamate can also be obtained from yeast. But if yeast is grown on pork media then it is haram. It happened in indonesia few years back when monosodium glutamate is produced using pork fat media to grow yeast by ajinomonto indonesia. As it was reported on our website.
Verification Required
This additive's halal status depends on its source. Check the product label for a halal certification mark, or contact the manufacturer directly.
What is E621 made from?
- bacterial fermentation of sugar cane or corn (plant)
- yeast grown on pork media (haraam - historical cases)
Foods that commonly contain E621
Always check the ingredient label on the specific product - manufacturers may change formulations.
Scholarly Notes
MSG itself is halal when produced from plant-based fermentation. In 1996, Ajinomoto Indonesia was found to use pork-derived media - this caused widespread alarm. Modern Western production is plant-based. Verify with manufacturer if uncertain about origin country.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is E621 (Monosodium Glutamate/MSG) halal?
E621 (Monosodium Glutamate/MSG) is classified as Mushbooh (Questionable). Source-dependent and requires verification. This additive may be derived from either halal (plant/synthetic) or haraam (animal) sources. Always check the product label or contact the manufacturer to verify the source.
What is E621 used for?
E621 is used as a flavour enhancer - intensifies savoury (umami) taste in food products.
What foods contain E621?
E621 (Monosodium Glutamate/MSG) is commonly found in: crisps/chips, instant noodles, Chinese takeaway food, frozen meals, seasoning mixes, soups, sauces, fast food.
What is E621 made from?
E621 can be derived from the following sources: bacterial fermentation of sugar cane or corn (plant), yeast grown on pork media (haraam - historical cases).
What are the other names for E621?
E621 may appear on food labels as: Monosodium Glutamate, MSG, Sodium Glutamate, Chinese Salt.
flavor enhancers category - 20 E-codes total: 3 Halal, 0 Haraam, 17 Mushbooh.
Related E-Codes in flavor enhancers
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