Ajinomoto, a crucial component especially in Chinese cuisine, leads to several health issues like high blood pressure, heart problems and faster aging, according to a new study by scientists from the University’s biochemistry department. from Allahabad (AU).
Ajinomoto is the brand name for a salt that scientists call monosodium glutamate (MSG). MSG is mainly used in Chinese dishes like Chowmein and Manchurian, which leaves a lasting taste (umami) that characterizes these foods, the IANS reported.
Along with sweet, sour, bitter and salty tastes, umami is the fifth essential taste.
Researchers from AU’s Department of Biochemistry, led by Professor SI Rizvi, have claimed that MSG, even in low doses, can be harmful to health.
The research has been published in the reputable Indian Journal of Clinical Biochemistry.
According to a study by the UA on the toxicity of the substance, MSG can induce oxidative stress, inflammation and other health problems, even at doses below the authorized limits. Additionally, umami can lead to MSG addiction in children.
Professor Rizvi said: “All of these adverse effects can predispose an individual to diseases such as hypertension, heart problems and faster aging.”
Since the consumption of MSG-rich foods has increased dramatically in recent years, the study is especially important. This substance is present in significant concentrations in all fast foods, including packaged momos, chips and other items.
MSG increases the production of certain chemicals in the body, which can be very harmful. Patients with COVID-19 often have the same type of change, he continued.
“The experimental study conducted on rats given a fixed dose of MSG revealed that after three weeks of continuous consumption of this salt, certain alterations were also observed in the brain region,” Prof. Rizvi said.
The effects of MSG at two different concentrations – 30 mg and 100 mg per kg of body weight – were studied by the researchers.
Despite the fact that the 30mg dose had no effect, there were a number of negative effects at the 100mg dose that could be harmful to health.
“This study is eye-opening because growing children may be particularly vulnerable to the toxic effects of MSG,” Prof Rizvi said, adding that children and growing fetuses have a leaky blood-brain barrier and could be affected by the toxic effects of MSG.
(IANS entries)
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