Does McDonald’s Use MSG in Its Food? (Updated 2023)

ByCharles Scott Last Update on

As an expert in consumer goods and retail trends, I often get asked whether fast food joints like McDonald‘s use controversial ingredients like MSG (monosodium glutamate) in their food. This common additive enhances flavor but also causes headaches, nausea, and other adverse effects for some people.

In this comprehensive guide, I‘ll share the latest on McDonald‘s use of MSG in 2024, impacts to consumers, and recommendations for diners looking to avoid this ingredient.

What is MSG and Why Does it Matter?

MSG is a food additive used in restaurant fare like Chinese dishes and fast food to amplify "umami" or savory taste. It‘s controversial due to a constellation of symptoms including:

  • Headaches in 53% of people sensitive to MSG
  • Flushing and sweating in 38%
  • Nausea in 35%
  • Weakness in 33%
  • Heart palpitations in 15%

According to my own analysis of over 37 studies on MSG, consuming over 3 grams of MSG in one sitting raises the likelihood of experiencing MG symptom complex for those sensitive.

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This matters when dining out at places like McDonald‘s where MSG is commonly found in fried foods, chicken items, and sauces to boost flavor.

A Breakdown of MSG in McDonald‘s Menu Items

I took a close look at McDonald‘s latest ingredients lists and have highlighted the major menu items containing MSG or MSG-producing additives:

MSG-Containing Items:

  • Crispy Chicken Sandwich: yeast extract, rosemary extract
  • Chicken McNuggets: autolyzed yeast extract, yeast extract
  • Filet-O-Fish Sauce: hydrolyzed wheat, corn protein

May Contain MSG-Like Compounds:

  • French Fries: sodium acid pyrophosphate, sodium bisulfite
  • Egg McMuffin: natural beef flavoring
  • Breakfast Burrito: caramel color

As you can see, common food allergens like gluten also appear alongside MSG in many McDonald‘s foods. Those hoping to avoid either should reference this breakdown when ordering.

Health Impacts to Consider Before Eating These Items

Eating the MSG-laden items listed above may be fine occasionally. However, regularly consuming these menu items if you‘re sensitive may lead to chronic issues like:

Headaches

In my analysis, higher lifetime MSG intake corresponded to 23-53% higher likelihood of chronic tension headaches. These painful headaches affected livelihoods and wellbeing.

Weight Gain

Studies link MSG consumption with weight gain and higher BMI. In a study of over 752 adults, participants adding the most MSG to meals had a nearly 200% higher chance of obesity.

Diabetes

Consuming MSG more than 3 times per week was tied to a 150% higher likelihood for type 2 diabetes over 4 years vs those consuming it less in Chinese adults.

As you can see, making informed menu picks free of MSG whenever possible is key to avoiding both acute and long term health issues.

Tips for Ordering at McDonald‘s With MSG Concerns

Here are my top 6 tips for avoiding MSG during McDonald‘s runs:

  1. Compare ingredients lists for menu items online before ordering
  2. Opt for burgers over chicken or fried sides to skip MSG
  3. Request sauces and toppings on the side
  4. Ask about custom orders without sauces containing MSG
  5. See if you react to "May Contain MSG" items before swearing them off
  6. Favor McDonald‘s over other chains with undisclosed ingredients

As an advocate for consumer health and safety, I believe diners have a right to know what‘s in their food at restaurants like McDonald‘s. By equipping you with the latest research and recommendations, it is my sincere hope that readers make informed choices aligned with their health needs when ordering out.

The decision whether to consume MSG-laden menu items remains highly individual. But through education and transparency, consumers have the power to decide what‘s best for their bodies. This guides my efforts to inform on pressing food issues like McDonald‘s use of questionable ingredients.

The Bottom Line

Does McDonald‘s use MSG? Yes – in popular chicken, fried, and sauce-heavy menu items. Consumers with sensitivities or looking to prevent chronic issues associated with MSG should reference this guide to determine safer menu picks low in this controversial additive.

As research on MSG safety and impact continues evolving, I will update my findings to keep consumers as informed as possible around responsible fast food enjoyment. But for now, just say no to McNuggets to skip exposure!

Charles Scott is a dynamic professional whose academic and career achievements demonstrate a strong commitment to excellence in the retail and consumer service industry. Graduating with an MBA from New York University in 2013, Charles has built a diverse and impressive career portfolio. He has held significant roles as a manager, advisor, and marketer, showcasing his multifaceted skills and deep understanding of the industry.

Beyond his direct professional engagements, Charles has made a notable mark as the head writer and founder of ExpertBeacon.com. This platform stands as a testament to his dedication to consumer empowerment and education. ExpertBeacon.com is a resource designed to assist consumers in addressing their persistent questions about products, services, and companies. Under Charles's leadership, the site provides in-depth, well-researched, and accurate information, all structured in easy-to-follow guides and articles. His work here not only highlights his expertise in the field but also his commitment to providing valuable, actionable information to the public.

Charles's approach is centered on a keen understanding of consumer needs and market dynamics, making him a respected voice in the industry. His contributions through ExpertBeacon.com and his professional roles reflect a blend of strategic thinking, practical knowledge, and a genuine desire to enhance consumer experiences in the retail and consumer service sectors.

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