BENGALURU: The state health department is likely to ban the usage of monosodium glutamate (MSG) used as an ingredient in Chinese cuisine.
During the Legislative Council meeting on Monday, referring to various research papers by scientists BJP MLC Ramachandre Gowda said that MSG causes cancer. To this, Health Minister Ramesh Kumar said this is a ‘heinous crime’ by owners of restaurants and eateries. “I will discuss with experts the impact of using MSG and it will be placed in the session. If findings of the report confirms the negative impact on the health, MSG will be banned,” he said.
He added that when he checked with officials, no cases had been filed against those who use MSG. “This is a failure on our part.”
Prevention of Food Adulteration Rules, 1955, which states: “MSG may be added to a food article, provided the total glutamate content of the ready-to-serve food does not exceed 1 per cent. It shall not be added to any food meant for infants below 12 months.”