MSG symptom complex

medical condition

Also known as: Chinese restaurant syndrome, Kwok’s disease

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Last updated

June 24, 2026

Quick Summary

The "MSG symptom complex" refers to a group of symptoms, including facial flushing, palpitations, headache, sweating, and numbness or burning around the mouth, that some individuals report experiencing after consuming food seasoned with monosodium glutamate (MSG). MSG is a white crystalline substance, a sodium salt of the amino acid glutamic acid, used to enhance the natural flavor of foods, particularly in Chinese and Japanese cuisines.12

While anecdotal reports exist, research has not established a definitive link between MSG consumption and these adverse reactions. Studies have failed to demonstrate that MSG is the causal agent of the reported symptoms when ingested in normal amounts.12

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carboxylic acid
Amino acids
…is commonly known as “Chinese restaurant syndrome,” because MSG has been a widely used ingredient in the cuisine of many Chinese restaurants.
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…is commonly known as “Chinese restaurant syndrome,” because MSG has been a widely used ingredient in the cuisine of many Chinese restaurants.
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monosodium glutamate
…in 1968, are known as MSG symptom complex—or, more informally, “Chinese restaurant syndrome” because cooks in some Chinese restaurants may use MSG extravagantly. Subsequent studies have shown no conclusive link between the syndrome and the consumption of normal levels of MSG, however.
Read More
…in 1968, are known as MSG symptom complex—or, more informally, “Chinese restaurant syndrome” because cooks in some Chinese restaurants may use MSG extravagantly. Subsequent studies have shown no conclusive link between the syndrome and the consumption of normal levels of MSG, however.
Read More