Beef Seasoning

East End

5018605137224

Processing

4

Ultra-processed

Group 4 of 4 on the NOVA scale

Additives listed

1

0 we grade moderate or higher

Counted from the label, not by quantity

Nutrients

Nothing above the low band

Or no figures recorded at all

Three separate readings, kept apart on purpose. This is not a score, and none of it says this product is harmful.

This label lists 1 flavour enhancer.

E621 Monosodium glutamate
Flavour enhancer
No real concern strong evidence

What it is. The sodium salt of glutamate, an amino acid found naturally in tomatoes, cheese and mushrooms.

Why it is used. Boosts savoury, umami flavour in stocks, crisps, ready meals and sauces.

What the evidence says. The old idea of MSG causing headaches and flushing, once called Chinese restaurant syndrome, has not held up in controlled trials. Regulators worldwide treat it as safe at normal intake. A genuinely useful example of a feared additive that the evidence exonerates.

Regulatory status UK Permitted EU Permitted US Permitted

Permitted and classed as safe. Adds to total sodium, so it counts towards salt if a product uses a lot.

Assessed against EFSA, JECFA, US FDA. Full entry for E621

Salt, Tomato Powder, Herbs cnd Spies (Pepper, Parsley, Thyme, Paprika, Bay, Sage, Basil), Mustard, Hydralysed Vegetoble Protein, Monosodium Glutomate E621, Onion powder, Garlic powder, Celery, Flour, Free Flow agent ESS1

As printed on the pack, in the producer's own order: ingredients are listed by weight, so what comes first is most of what is in it. E numbers link to their assessment where we have one.

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