MSG symptom complex

noun

: a group of symptoms (such as facial flushing, palpitations, headache, sweating, and numbness or burning in or around the mouth) held to affect susceptible persons eating food heavily seasoned with monosodium glutamate

Note: While there are numerous anecdotal reports of MSG symptom complex, research has failed to establish a clear, definitive link between the consumption of MSG and adverse reactions.

… this flavor enhancer is not without its critics. Reports have cited the possibility of "MSG symptom complex," which is characterized by burning sensations, numbness, and tingling in parts of the body.

—Ocean County (New Jersey) Observer

In consideration of the three well-designed studies described above, MSG could not be demonstrated as the causal agent of the MSG symptom complex. When ingested with meals, MSG did not elicit the adverse reactions initially reported in 1968.

—Tina Ng

Word History

First Known Use

1995, in the meaning defined above

Medical Definition

MSG symptom complex

noun

: a group of symptoms (as facial flushing, palpitations, headache, sweating, and numbness or burning in or around the mouth) held to affect susceptible persons eating food heavily seasoned with monosodium glutamate

Note: While there are numerous anecdotal reports of MSG symptom complex, research has failed to establish a clear, definitive link between the consumption of MSG and adverse reactions.

… this flavor enhancer is not without its critics. Reports have cited the possibility of "MSG symptom complex," which is characterized by burning sensations, numbness, and tingling in parts of the body.

—Ocean County (New Jersey) Observer

In consideration of the three well-designed studies described above, MSG could not be demonstrated as the causal agent of the MSG symptom complex. When ingested with meals, MSG did not elicit the adverse reactions initially reported in 1968.

—Tina Ng