MSG, or monosodium glutamate, is a refined form of the naturally occurring amino acid glutamate, found in many foods. As a flavor enhancer, MSG amplifies savory tastes, known as umami, and is often used to reduce the overall sodium content in food due to its flavor-masking properties. The production of MSG typically involves fermentation or the hydrolysis of gluten, resulting in a refined form of glutamate bound to salt.