There’s a lot of controversy surrounding the use of Monosodium Glutamate (MSG) in popular American food chains. Some people who suffer from unique heart conditions experience chest pain whenever they consume MSG.
So, if you like having your food from Chick-Fil-A, it is essential to know if the restaurant uses MSG. I have conducted in-depth research on the matter, and here is what I found out!
Does Chick-Fil-A Use MSG In 2024?
Unfortunately, some of Chick-Fil-A’s meals contain MSG in 2024. Some of these items include the classic chicken sandwich, spicy chicken sandwich, and chicken nuggets. Monosodium glutamate (MSG) is a flavor enhancer commonly used in processed foods and Asian cuisine. However, most of the grilled food is MSG-free, including the grilled chicken cool wrap and grilled nuggets.
Keep reading to find out whether Chick-Fil-A uses MSG in chicken nuggets, which Chick-Fil-A foods are MSG-free, and much more!
Does Chick-Fil-A Use MSG in Food?
Chick-Fil-A uses MSG in some of the food, but not all. The chain explains that it uses MSG to “enhance” the flavor of the chicken soup and salad dressing.
Chick-Fil-A is not shy about sharing its ingredients. The fast-food chain’s website lists what’s in every item on the menu, but there are a few things left out.
One of those things is monosodium glutamate, which is listed as MSG in the ingredients list for Chick-Fil-A’s chicken tortilla soup.
In addition to being found naturally in cheese and mushrooms, MSG can be produced in a laboratory and added to foods as a flavor enhancer.
Some restaurants also use it as a way to boost flavor while using less salt.
Some Chick-Fil-A foods that contain MSG include:
- Classic Chicken Sandwich
- Chicken Nuggets
- Spicy Chicken Sandwich
Does Chick-Fil-A Use MSG in Grilled Chicken?
Chick-Fil-A’s grilled chicken breast, which the company uses to make its grilled chicken sandwiches and other items, lists only “seasoning” as an ingredient.
However, the seasoning contains MSG, a fact that’s noted on the restaurant chain’s website.
Chick-Fil-A lists it among the ingredients in its “grilled chicken seasonings” under an “allergen information” heading.
Does Chick-Fil-A Use MSG in Chicken Nuggets?
Chick-Fil-A’s chicken nuggets contain MSG, also known as monosodium glutamate, although the ingredient has been the subject of much controversy in recent years.
The restaurant has a page on its website dedicated to ingredients and nutrition information.
It also has a page that addresses MSG specifically and explains why the company uses it as an ingredient.
The first item on the list of ingredients for Chick-Fil-A’s chicken nuggets is MSG. It is also listed separately at the bottom of the list of ingredients.
It is important to note that while Chick-Fil-A’s chicken nuggets contain MSG, it is not listed as an allergen on their allergen page.
Does Chick-Fil-A Use MSG in Fries?
Chick-Fil-A fries are made with MSG, and the only way to avoid MSG on your fries is by ordering them without seasoning salt.
However, it depends on which type of fry you order from Chick-Fil-A. If you order waffle fries, they do contain MSG.
If you order the regular straight-cut fries or any other side from the menu, they do not contain any MSG.
The only side from Chick-Fil-A’s menu that contains MSG is the Waffle Fries (the Waffle Potato Chips are also made with MSG).
MSG is used in Waffle Fries because it helps give them the extra crispy texture without having to cook them longer at high temperatures like other restaurants do.
Does Chick-Fil-A Have MSG in Chicken Sandwiches?
Chick-Fil-A has MSG in the chicken sandwich, and it is listed as an ingredient in the gluten-free bun.
There are also three other ingredients with MSG: chicken broth, soy sauce, and natural flavors.
What Is MSG Free at Chick-Fil-A?
In case you would wish to purchase an MSG-free entrée at Chick-Fil-A, you can opt for any of the following:
- Grilled Chicken Sandwich
- Grilled Market Salad
- Grilled Chicken Cool Wrap
- Grilled Chicken Club Sandwich
- Grilled Nuggets
Is MSG Safe?
MSG is generally recognized as safe (GRAS), according to the FDA.
In fact, you encounter it regularly in your food without even knowing it because it occurs naturally in some foods, such as tomatoes and cheeses.
What Does MSG Taste Like?
Unlike most seasonings, MSG doesn’t have much of a taste on its own. However, it enhances the flavor of other ingredients by highlighting their natural glutamate content.
According to the FDA, it enhances your senses to experience more fully the natural flavors already present in foods.
To know more, you can also read our posts on whether or not Chick-Fil-A sauces contain dairy, does Chick-Fil-A soak chicken in pickle juice, and does Chick-Fil-A opens on Sundays.
Conclusion
MSG is common in fast-food restaurants, and Chick-Fil-A is not an exception. The company uses it in some sauces and the breading on many chicken products.
MSG has become a bit of a controversial ingredient over the years, with many people claiming that they are sensitive to it.
