Health expert, dr. Reisa Broto Asmoro, urges the public to be more critical and wise in filtering information regarding the use of Monosodium Glutamate (MSG). According to her, the view labeling MSG as a dangerous substance has long been based on myths circulating in society, rather than valid scientific facts or evidence.
Reisa emphasized that the human body is actually already familiar with glutamate content from an early age. This compound is naturally found in various everyday food products, such as cheese, soy sauce, and is even contained in breast milk (ASI). Therefore, glutamate is not a foreign substance to human metabolism.
Furthermore, dr. Reisa revealed that global and national health authorities, including the Indonesian Ministry of Health, BPOM, and the World Health Organization (WHO), do not categorize MSG as a dangerous substance as long as it is consumed within reasonable limits. International regulations have also established safe usage standards for the general public.
Instead of worrying about MSG, health experts advise the public to focus more on controlling the consumption of Sugar, Salt, and Fat (GGL). Limiting GGL intake in the daily diet is considered far more crucial for maintaining long-term health than simply avoiding MSG.
In an effort to support this education, PT Sasa Inti launched the #MSGYangBenar campaign. This initiative explains that the sodium content in MSG is actually much lower than that of regular table salt, making MSG a smart alternative to maintain food flavor while helping people reduce excess salt intake.
