I found a rib rub I would like to try. It calls for 1 teaspoon Accent(MSG). What is the MSG for?
Can I make the rub without using the MSG?

ICU,

MSG is a flavor enhancer and to my taste buds, it really does make a difference. HOWEVER, some people are sensitive to it, e.g. headaches, mild skin rash, hives ...and it was once thought to be a carcinogen at one time (don't know if that was ever scientifically proven). It used to be in all of the commercially prepared compound seasonings like Lawry's Seasoning Salt, Montreal Steak Seasoning, etc. It has been removed from all, if not most of those commercial seasonings.

Yes you can make any recipe without it - just a simple elimination - you don't need to substitute anything in its place. You might try a little rub with it and the exact same rub without and see which way you like it. IMO there is a difference in the flavor of cooked meats even though MSG by itself is relatively neutral in taste.

I agree with Mike. MSG really does enhance the flavor of foods, especially meat.

Until recently I thought the MSG thing was a bit over-hyped. We recently got some new neighbors and the husband told us about some of his trips to the ER because of MSG. I still use it but a little more moderatly. And, if I know we are having the neighbors over I go with a commercial rub instead of my homemade concoction.

WHat did the MSG do that caused a trip to the ER?

That must account for how few chinese there are,after using it constantly for 4000 yrs.

Ah...MSG.

Talked about a few times (a search will turn up a couple of "interesting" threads). If you want to see a "heated" discussion, search for MSG in Best of Forums section.

Here's a good reference link.
MSG Facts

Another one
More MSG Info

Bottom line. Some like it, some don't and some are allergic and avoid it.

monosodium glutamate (MSG) is made of beet or molasses made of beets. wheelz it would be interesting to know if your neighbor is allergic to beets. glutamate can be found in almost all foods we eat. paul

Thanks for the replies. It looks like I'll add it and see if anyone has a problem with it.

ICUQ2 - The trips to the ER were for migrane-type headaches, extremely high blood pressure and stroke-like symptoms. For a 74 year old man that's living dangerously!

I had read somewhere the alergic reaction percentage is similar to that of people with peanuts. So for me its peanuts and MSG unless someone advises me they have a problem with it. I would think people who have either are extra cautious & would ask questions before eating somewhere new.

Is Adolphs flavor enhancer the same. It appears so, just no MSG. Has anyone compared the two. My father is allergic to MSG and I was more curious than anything.

There are plenty of good commercial rubs,and cookteam rubs,that have taken the msg out of their product.

Some folks now add them back in.

If I thought there was a problem with a guest,I'd leave it out.

Chances are your ribs will be so much better than what they have had,you could use just salt and pepper on them.

Folks tend to like bbq a little sweet,so a little sugar doesn't hurt.


Just my $0.02