I have a problem with MSG. In North America, it's a problem eating out because of the use of MSG in soups, sauces, seasonings on meat etc. so I have to be careful in what I order. In particular, seasoned salt gives me a lot of trouble and any items that use bouillon or soup bases. Although chains are obviously more trouble, it does happen at higher end restaurants at times here as well. Does anyone have any idea whether this could be a common ingredient used at restaurants in Italy. I read so much about the amazing food that I can't imagine it's used much, however, the reality is I need to know. I also don't want to insult restaurants, but if it is used, I will have to ask and need to know how to ask this in Italian. Thanks for any help or advice.
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Alta Loma, CA, USA
1446 posts
Hi Kathy. Hubby & I also have a problem with MSG. I can't answer your question with absolute certainty but I don't think you'll have any problems with MSG in Italy. We have found that in general, Europeans tend to use much less preservatives than we do in food & they tend to use fresher ingredients, etc. This is of course a generalization but we've never had any issues in restaurants in Italy with MSG. My husband & I both have strong reactions to it so I'm confident that if we had eaten something containing MSG, we would have known within a few hours. Good luck