Question

Packaged food containing Monosodium glutamate shall carry on the label the following

• A. Contains MSG
• B. Not recommended for infants below 12 months
• C. Not for phenylketoneurics
• D. Not for lactose-intolerant infants

Hint:

Under FSSAI guidelines, added MSG requires a dual label declaration: "CONTAINS ADDED MSG" and "NOT RECOMMENDED FOR INFANTS BELOW 12 MONTHS".

Answer 1

The Correct Option is B

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
Monosodium glutamate (MSG) is a widely used flavor enhancer that provides a savory (umami) taste.
Because of potential sensitivities and developmental considerations, food safety authorities regulate the labeling of foods containing added MSG.
The Food Safety and Standards (Packaging and Labelling) Regulations specify mandatory declarations on packaged foods containing MSG.

Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
According to FSSAI regulations, any packaged food that contains added monosodium glutamate must carry a clear, prominent declaration on the label.
This labeling must include:
"CONTAINS ADDED MONOSODIUM GLUTAMATE" (A) to inform consumers of its presence.
"NOT RECOMMENDED FOR INFANTS BELOW 12 MONTHS" (B) because infant metabolic and blood-brain barrier systems are still developing and may be sensitive to high concentrations of free glutamic acid.
Declarations regarding phenylketoneuria (C) are mandatory for foods containing aspartame (an artificial sweetener containing phenylalanine).
Declarations for lactose intolerance (D) are not a standard mandatory labeling requirement for MSG-containing foods.
Therefore, only declarations A and B are required for packages containing added MSG.

Step 3: Final Answer
Packaged foods containing monosodium glutamate must carry the declarations "Contains MSG" and "Not recommended for infants below 12 months" (A and B only).