Andy Hui reveals MSG sensitivity; Taiwan FDA warns specific groups to limit intake

Hong Kong celebrity Andy Hui has shed light on his sensitivity to monosodium glutamate (MSG), a common food additive. Recent photos of the 58-year-year-old singer showing significant weight loss had concerned fans, but Hui clarified that his condition is linked to MSG. He explained that consuming MSG when eating out often leads to facial swelling and neck pain, prompting him to opt for lighter, MSG-free meals at home.

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58-year-old Hong Kong star Andy Hui has lost a lot of weight, and recent photos have gone viral.

Taiwan's Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has issued guidance regarding MSG consumption, particularly for individuals with pre-existing health conditions. The agency highlighted that MSG contains 13% sodium, which is one-third the amount found in table salt. Patients with conditions requiring sodium restriction, such as high blood pressure, heart disease, liver, or kidney ailments, should follow their doctor's advice to reduce their intake of both salt and MSG to manage sodium levels.

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In fact, it's because he is sensitive to MSG and easily gets swollen face and neck pain when eating out, so he eats lightly at home.

The FDA further explained that MSG's primary component is sodium glutamate, a flavor enhancer naturally present in many foods like tomatoes, cheese, mushrooms, and meat. While modern production methods involve microbial fermentation of starch and molasses, the substance itself is ubiquitous. The U.S. FDA has affirmed MSG's safety for normal consumption since 1995, finding no evidence linking it to chronic diseases.

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Although the sodium content (13%) of MSG is only 1/3 of table salt (39%), patients with high blood pressure, heart disease, liver, and kidney diseases should still follow the doctor's instructions to reduce the intake of salt and MSG to avoid excessive sodium intake.

However, the Taiwanese FDA does caution that a small minority of individuals may experience temporary adverse reactions within hours of consuming MSG. These symptoms can include headaches, nausea, rapid heartbeat, or flushing. For these individuals, avoiding MSG is recommended. The agency also reiterated that even without added MSG, a typical diet naturally contains about 20 grams of glutamate daily.

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A very small number of people may experience food intolerance symptoms such as headache, nausea, rapid heartbeat, or facial flushing within a few hours of consuming MSG. It is best to avoid consumption.