MSG (monosodium glutamate) enhances the flavor of foods by reacting with other seasonings and spices to give foods an extra savory taste. With no distinct taste or aroma of its own, Accent can be used on almost any food, including meat, vegetables, soups, potatoes and rice.

A commonly used food additive that enhances flavor in a wide variety of foods. It is "Generally Recognized as Safe" (GRAS) by the FDA.

MSG is chemically known as the sodium salt of glutamic acid. Glutamates are naturally occurring in many foods, including meats, seafood (particularly oysters), dairy products, such as Parmesan cheese, and vegetable, sources such as tomatoes, mushrooms and kombu (sea kelp).

Use of this product dates back to Japan in the 1920's. The white flavorless crystal powder is a sodium salt derived form glutamic acid. It is believed that MSG stimulates the glutamate receptors in the tongue. 

Glutamates in foods and additives provide a savory flavor know in Asian cooking as "umami," or the "fifth taste." This taste is subtle yet brings out the richness and depth of the food it flavors. Kombu, clam juice, oysters, mushrooms, seasoned salt, soy sauce, dressings and dashi (Japanese cooking stock) all add a savory flavor enhancement to the foods to which they are added.

Chinese restaurant syndrome, also known as MSG Complex illness, can include symptoms such as burning sensations in the neck, chest tightness and difficulty breathing, nausea and sweating after consuming Asian-style foods. However, according to a study in the November 2000 issue of "The Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology," Raif S. Geha, M.D., says the data has failed to confirm that MSG is the cause. It is likely that sufferers of the syndrome are experiencing allergic-type reactions to other ingredients, such as shrimp, shellfish, peanuts, spices or herbs.

MSG is one of the most extensively studied food substances in history. Numerous tests and scientific evaluations have concluded that it provides a safe and useful taste enhancer to foods. As with all things, the consumer is encouraged to practice moderate consumption of processed foods containing additives.

Scientific Name: Monosodium glutamate
aka: MSG
Origin: USA (Iowa)
Notes: FCC Grade. Certified Kosher 
Specifications are subject to change without notice.
* FDA Disclaimer

Reference
wikipedia.org
Mel Magazine