The main component of monosodium glutamate is sodium glutamate, which is an amino acid salt and naturally exists in many foods. In the production of monosodium glutamate, fermented starch is hydrolyzed to obtain glutamic acid, which is then combined with sodium ions to form the main component of monosodium glutamate-sodium glutamate.

Sodium glutamate is widely used in food processing and seasoning because of its functions of increasing umami and improving taste. However, excessive consumption of monosodium glutamate may have adverse effects on health, so it is necessary to eat it in moderation.