Monosodium Glutamate: Effect on Plasma and Breast Milk Amino Acid Levels in Lactating Women 1

Summary

Recent studies describing the occurrence of specific neurotoxic effects in suckling animals of several species following oral or subcutaneous administration of large quantities of monosodium glutamate have raised questions regarding the safety of monosodium glutamate as a food additive for pregnant and lactating women. Plasma and breast milk free amino acid levels were measured in lactating women following ingestion of a single 6 g load of monosodium glutamate administered with either water or Slender. Small increases in plasma glutamate, aspartate and alanine levels were noted. However, little change was noted in breast milk amino acid levels. These data indicate that little, if any, of the administered load is concentrated in the milk.