It is a sodium derived from glutamic acid, used as a flavor enhancer in industrialized foods, such as crackers and snacks. It can also be used as a type of seasoning.
It is made of hydrolyzed vegetable protein or glucose fermentation. The problem is that, although it has been released by bodies such as the FDA (Food and Drug Administration, which oversees the production and trade of food and drugs in the US), there are studies that associate it with obesity.
“Our findings suggest that those who have a high consumption of this substance have a high risk of developing overweight or obesity”, explains professor Ka Hefrom the University of North Carolina, USA. There is even evidence that glutamate can also trigger migraine attacks, allergic reactions and even cancer. Studies are not yet conclusive, but in any case, it’s always good moderate the consumption.