Daijiworld Media Network - Bengaluru (SP)

Bengaluru, Mar 21: Considering health hazards posed by Ajinomoto, which is also known by the name, monosodium glutamate (MSG), the state government is planning to ban use of this flavour enhancer, which is mainly used by Chinese food outlets and hotels. The government is contemplating to impose blanket ban on the use of this compound, which is famously known as tasting powder, as it is being used indiscriminately and has serious affects on health of people.

Ajinomoto is mainly used in Gobi Manchurian, Fried Rice, Salad Dressing, Sauce, Soups, and many junk foods. Health experts have often come up with advice to ban use of this chemical compound. The government now intends to take this advice and move ahead in all seriousness to implement their recommendation.

Replying to a question raised at the legislative council session on Monday March 20 by BJP councillor, Ramachandra Gowda, minister, Ramesh Kumar, said that monosodium glutamate is being used in Chinese restaurants and roadside eateries for enhancing taste and flavour. He said that the government is seriously considering the practicability of banning its use in view of the health problems it creates in case of excess use.

The minister said that this compound is permitted to be used when following proper manufacturing methods. "It is therefore easily available in the market. But health department officials have not been studying about the side affects of its excessive use. We will table a report about in the house. The government does not dither in the matter of banning it if it is in the interests of the consumers," the minister clarified.