Glutamic Acid (E620) — What You Need to Know
Generally Safe(8/10)Unknown
The score is an eNumbers.org editorial summary, not an official agency rating or medical advice. Start with the regulatory status and primary sources below.
What Is Glutamic Acid?
Natural amino acid that provides umami flavour. Found naturally in tomatoes, parmesan cheese, and seaweed. The basis of MSG.
What Is It Used For?
Function:
Regulatory & Editorial Context
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Acceptable Daily Intake (ADI)
30 mg/kg bw/day (group ADI)
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Regulatory Status
🇺🇸 USA (FDA): GRAS
🇪🇺 EU (EFSA): Approved (ADI 30 mg/kg for group)
Editorial context score
eNumbers.org currently assigns Glutamic Acid an editorial context label of Generally Safe with a score of 8/10. This is 0.8 points above the database average for flavor enhancers (7.2/10). Dataset reference year: .
This score is not issued by EFSA, FDA, WHO or another regulator.
Commonly Found In
Soy sauceParmesanTomatoesSnack seasoningsStock cubes
Always check the label for E620 or 'Glutamic Acid'
▶Chemical Information
Formula: C₅H₉NO₄
CAS Number: 56-86-0
INS Number: 620
Also known as: E620, INS 620, L-Glutamic Acid
Frequently Asked Questions about Glutamic Acid
Current dataset status: FDA — GRAS; EFSA/EU — Approved (ADI 30 mg/kg for group). Regulatory status can change and does not replace personal medical advice.
Quick Facts
- E-Number
- E620
- INS Number
- 620
- Category
- Flavor Enhancers
- Origin
- Unknown
- FDA Status
- GRAS
- EFSA Status
- Approved (ADI 30 mg/kg for group)
- ADI
- 30 mg/kg bw/day (group ADI)
- Dataset Review
Ingredient-level Dietary Notes
Vegan: ✅ YesHalal: ✅ YesKosher: ✅ YesGluten-Free: ✅ Yes
Carriers, processing aids and product certification can change suitability. Verify the final label and certifier.
Quick Links
Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only and is not medical advice. Always consult a healthcare professional for health-related decisions.