L-(+)sodium glutamate (monosodium L-glutamate, MSG) has a unique taste, known as “umami”, which is different from the four basic tastes of sweet, salty, sour, and bitter.
MSG is used in large quantities as a flavor enhancer throughout the world. MSG is not a direct taste enhancer but a complex flavor enhancer for gravies, meats, poultry, sauces, and in other combinations. MSG is also used to enhance the taste of tobacco and to treat hepatic coma. As a salt of amino acid, MSG is also safe in practices of use and concentration in cosmetics, such as skin care products.
