E622

Monopotassium glutamate

Moderate risk flavour enhancersynthetic

Glutamate flavor enhancer.

Acceptable daily intake: 30 mg/kg body weight/day (EFSA)
Vegan: Yes
Vegetarian: Yes

What it is

E622 (Monopotassium glutamate, or MPG) is the potassium salt of glutamic acid. It functions exactly like its famous sibling, MSG (E621), delivering a rich umami flavour to savoury foods.

How it is used in food

Used in low-sodium recipes.

Commonly found in

Low-sodium soups and broths
Savoury snacks and crisps
Ready meals and sauces

Health and safety

Same EFSA glutamate intake limit.

EFSA considers E622 safe within the Group ADI for glutamates. It is often preferred by health-conscious manufacturers because it provides the savoury enhancement of MSG without adding sodium to the product.

Glutamate sensitivity symptoms

sensitive individuals · evidence: suspected

In a small subset of the population, consuming large amounts of free glutamates on an empty stomach can trigger headaches, nausea, flushing, and sweating.

EFSA evaluation of E621

Identical umami mechanism.

Regulatory status

Region	Status	Notes
Australia & New Zealand FSANZ	Permitted	Permitted under the FSANZ Food Standards Code.
European Union EFSA / European Commission	Permitted	Authorised for food use under EU regulations (Annex II).
United States FDA (Food and Drug Administration)	Permitted	Generally Recognised As Safe (GRAS).

Identification on labels

E-number: E622

Also printed asMPG · Potassium glutamate

Alternatives to this additive

E621: Monosodium glutamate — The standard sodium-based version of the flavour enhancer.

How it is made

Produced by neutralising fermented glutamic acid (E620) with potassium hydroxide.

Neutralisation — Glutamic acid is neutralised with potassium compounds to form MPG.

Worth knowing

MSG with potassium standing in for sodium.

Conclusion

E622 is a smart alternative to MSG for low-sodium diets. However, individuals sensitive to free glutamates will react to MPG just as they would to MSG.

References

EFSA evaluation of E621 — EFSA

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Entry last reviewed 2026-07-28.

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