Is Monosodium Glutamate (MSG), a popular flavor enhancer, really harmful to health? And what is its halal status? To address various questions and misconceptions surrounding MSG, Sasa Inti collaborated with PATPI Bogor and FORMASIP IPB University to organize a National Seminar titled “MSG as a Flavor Enhancer in Health and Halal Perspectives.” The event took place at the Auditorium Abdul Muis Nasution, Faculty of Agricultural Technology (FATETA), IPB University, featuring experts in health, food science, and halal food products.
The aim of this seminar was to provide a broader understanding of the health and halal aspects of MSG. The speakers at the event included experts such as:
– Dr. Mira Dewi, M.Si., Ph.D., a specialist in Health and a lecturer at the Faculty of Medicine, IPB University.
– Prof. Dr. Ir. Hanifah Nuryani Lioe, M.Si., a professor in food chemistry at the Department of Food Science and Technology, FATETA, IPB University.
– Prof. Dr. Nugraha Edhi Suyatma, S.T.P., DEA, a professor in food process engineering and packaging at the Department of Food Science and Technology, FATETA, IPB University, and also a halal auditor at LPPOM MUI.
During his presentation, Prof. Dr. Nugraha Edhi Suyatma, S.T.P., DEA explained the process of MSG production in the industry and clarified that there are often issues surrounding the halal status of MSG (monosodium glutamate) or MSG in the mass media and social media. He acknowledged that there have been cases in Indonesia where a product containing MSG was declared haram due to the presence of pork elements in its production process. However, he emphasized that all MSG producers now adhere to halal production standards by using only halal ingredients and ensuring that their production facilities are free from contamination with haram or najis substances.
“Thus, the halal status of MSG products can be guaranteed. In Indonesia, there is no doubt about the halal aspect of MSG, as all products in circulation have been certified halal by the Indonesian Halal Product Assurance Agency (BPJPH),” he stated.
From a food safety perspective, Dr. Mira Dewi, M.Si., Ph.D. explained that based on various scientific studies, there is no strong evidence to suggest that MSG causes harmful health effects when used in recommended amounts. Meanwhile, Prof. Dr. Ir. Hanifah Nuryani Lioe, M.Si. emphasized that MSG is a natural amino acid found in various foods such as tomatoes and cheese. When consumed within safe limits, MSG does not have negative health effects.
Overall, the seminar shed light on the misconceptions surrounding MSG, providing valuable insights into its health and halal considerations. It is essential to understand the facts and scientific evidence behind such food additives to make informed choices about their consumption.
