MSG (Monosodium Glutamate) and Food Labeling

Q:  I read with interest the latest article about MSG (monosodium glutamate) and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) allowing this ingredient to be labeled in a somewhat misleading way.

Personally, I think this is totally out of line. I have Crohn's Disease and cannot tolerate MSG. So what am I to do when I am no longer able to tell if a product contains this nasty additive? Yes, I am aware the FDA considers MSG practically harmless. And no, they don't know what they are talking about. The FDA must have been lobbied diligently by food suppliers to allow the passage of this grave injustice. OK, what can we do to persuade the FDA to take a new look at this? Who do we contact? Any help would be most appreciated. P.S. Your column is the best!

A:  I don't know if the FDA responds to letters from consumers, but you can call their Consumer reporting line at 800-532-4440. Your physician can write or fax them, or call 800-FDA-1088. They do take reports from doctors about adverse reactions seriously.

It might be years before more accurate labeling is required (if ever). In the meantime, you'll have to eat more fresh, unprocessed foods to avoid MSG. This will be better for your health anyway.

"Dear Doctor" is a compilation of patient questions answered by doctors from the Medical College of Wisconsin.