Does Chick Fil A use MSG?
Chick-fil-A is a popular fast-food chain known for its chicken sandwiches and burgers. However, some consumers may be concerned about the additives used in their food. One common ingredient that concerns many people is MSG. But does Chick-fil-A use MSG?
To answer this question, it’s essential to understand what MSG is and its purpose in food. MSG is a flavor enhancer widely used in the food industry to add savory and meaty flavors to various foods. While some believe that MSG can cause harmful effects, numerous scientific studies have found that it’s generally considered safe for human consumption.
So, do Chick-fil-A food items contain MSG? As stated by a Chick-fil-A spokesperson, they are "aware of the concerns and are proactively researching ways to potentially remove MSG from our chicken sandwich, nuggets and strips". Specifically, their classic chicken sandwich, spicy chicken sandwich, and chicken nuggets contain MSG, which can be a concern for people who are sensitive to gluten or have dietary restrictions. However, there are no MSG-free options available yet.
The company announced that they have removed the MSG from some of its menu items, including:
- Grilled Chicken Sandwich
- Grilled Chicken Club Sandwich
- Grilled Nuggets
- Grilled Market Salad
How can you find out if food contains MSG?
- Reading labels: Many food packaging includes ingredient lists, including MSG. Pay attention to the label and check for items like "Flavor enhancer (MSG)".
- Manufacturer’s disclosure: Some manufacturers voluntarily report MSG content on their product labels or websites.
- Contacting the food manufacturer: If you cannot find the information you seek, you can contact the food manufacturer directly to inquire about MSG presence.
Now, let’s take a closer look at some frequently asked questions regarding MSG consumption:
Does cooking with MSG lead to gluten contamination?
No. MSG is not a glutamate, nor is it derived from wheat, rice, or barley. Coeliac disease or gluten-sensitive individuals can still consume items containing MSG as it does not contain gluten .
Is the use of MSG linked to cancer?
Numerous scientific studies have found no evidence to support that MSG consumption causes cancer. The FDA has banned only a few food dyes and has not indicated any concerns regarding MSG carcinogenicity.
What are some alternatives to MSG?
- Yeast extract: As a natural umami food, yeast extract can effectively replace MSG.
- Other flavor enhancers: Depending on the specific ingredient and desired outcome, salt, sugar, or umami-rich substances like truffles or mushroom extracts could be used.
- Fresh herbs: Adding fragrant herbs and spices to food can elevate flavors.
In conclusion, while MSG is present in some of Chick-fil-A menu items, it’s always essential to make informed dietary choices. Check labels or contact manufacturers if you require specific information on MSG inclusion. Additionally, there may be alternative methods to mask flavors or add savory tastes without the use of MSG.
**What does Chick-fil-A specifically use MSG in? | |
---|---|
Classic Chicken Sandwich | |
Spicy Chicken Sandwich | |
Chicken Nuggets | |
Breaded Nuggets |
References:
Chick-fil-A News: [Is MSG Contained in Your Favorite Items?](https://thecoop.thefruitfulwife.com/ is-msg-contained-in-your-favorite-items-chickfil-a/)
Food.com: [MSG in Chik-fil-A vs. Other Chains](https://www.food.com/restaurants/chik-fil-a/msg-ingredients-v-s-other-chains )
FDA: Food Dyes and Pigments in the United States
JAMA: [The neurotoxic potential of modified glutamate (MSG)]https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jamanetworkopen/fullarticle/2675112