flavor_enhancer INS 620

Glutamic Acid E620

umami β€” Primarily natural_or_synthetic.

πŸ‡ͺπŸ‡Ί EU: Approved
πŸ‡ΊπŸ‡Έ USA: Approved
πŸ‡―πŸ‡΅ Japan: Approved
πŸ‡¦πŸ‡Ί AU/NZ: Approved
πŸ‡¨πŸ‡¦ Canada: Approved
Scientific Name

L-Glutamic acid

CAS: 6899-05-4

Data verified: 2026-04-04

Factual Regulatory Reference

This database provides factual regulatory information compiled from official government sources. It does not constitute medical, nutritional, or safety advice. Regulatory status varies by country and is subject to change. Always refer to your local regulatory authority for the most current information.

? Did You Know?

Glutamic Acid occurs naturally in Tomatoes and Parmesan cheese. Many people consume it daily without realizing it's also a listed food additive.

Glutamic Acid is produced through fermentation β€” the same biological process used to make bread, beer, and yogurt.

Beyond food, Glutamic Acid is also used in cosmetics, medicine. Its versatility makes it one of the most multi-purpose chemical compounds in everyday life.

Detailed Regulatory Assessment

πŸ‡ͺπŸ‡Ί

European Union (EFSA)

approved Max: quantum satis mg/kg

None

Official EFSA Link
πŸ‡ΊπŸ‡Έ

United States (FDA)

approved GRAS

Generally recognized as safe

πŸ‡―πŸ‡΅

Japan (MHLW)

approved Cat: ζ—’ε­˜ζ·»εŠ η‰©

Compliant with Japanese food sanitation law.

Acceptable Daily Intake (ADI)

International Standard (JECFA)

Not specified (ADI not limited)

mg/kg body weight per day

European Standard (EFSA)

Not specified

Everyday Perspective

For a 60kg adult, this limit is roughly equivalent to consuming:

Natural Occurrence

A naturally occurring amino acid responsible for umami (savory) taste. One of the most abundant amino acids in the human body and in many foods.

TomatoesParmesan cheeseMushroomsSoy sauceMeat and fishHuman breast milk

Manufacturing

Method: bacterial fermentation

Commercially produced by bacterial fermentation of molasses or starch using Corynebacterium glutamicum.

Applications Beyond Food

Cosmetics

Hair conditioning agent

Medical

Nutritional supplement

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Glutamic Acid (E620)?
Glutamic Acid (E620) is a flavor_enhancer used in food products. It is umami and natural_or_synthetic. A naturally occurring amino acid responsible for umami (savory) taste. One of the most abundant amino acids in the human body and in many foods.
Where is Glutamic Acid found naturally?
Glutamic Acid is naturally found in Tomatoes, Parmesan cheese, Mushrooms, Soy sauce, Meat and fish, Human breast milk. A naturally occurring amino acid responsible for umami (savory) taste. One of the most abundant amino acids in the human body and in many foods.
What is the ADI for Glutamic Acid?
The Acceptable Daily Intake (ADI) for Glutamic Acid is Not specified (ADI not limited) as established by JECFA (Joint FAO/WHO Expert Committee on Food Additives). ADI represents the amount that can be consumed daily over a lifetime without appreciable health risk.
What foods contain Glutamic Acid?
Glutamic Acid is used in various food categories including Salts, spices, soups, sauces, salads and protein products. It is used as a flavor_enhancer in these products.
Is Glutamic Acid the same as L-Glutamate?
Yes, Glutamic Acid is also known as L-Glutamate, Glu. These are different names for the same substance.