A KFC customer’s unbelievable discovery on a packet of KFC seasoning has prompted an intense backlash on social media.
Posting on a popular Facebook group, a New Zealand woman shared an image of the “Colonel Sanders’ Recipe” seasoning pouch which says it is “exclusively for use in the KFC system”.
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A closer look at the packet shows the main ingredient in the famous seasoning is Monosodium Glutamate - also known as MSG - followed by “Herbs and Spices, Salt and Garlic Powder”.
MSG is a controversial food additive that is generally regarded as being safe for consumption.
However, critics have claimed the ingredient can cause headaches, sweating and bloating.
The KFC customer who made the discovery voiced her unhappiness on social media.
“It’s like salt on crack,” she wrote on the Aotearoa Kai Gatherers Facebook group.
Her post prompted a heated reaction, with many shocked to see MSG included in the KFC seasoning.
“Yuck, no wonder I always feel sick afterwards,” one Facebook user responded.
Other also stated they believed the controversial ingredient had been banned.
But many others thought MSG was OK to consume in moderation, and could be found in many different cuisines.
“I’m certain that MSG has never been banned, and all the myths surrounding it (being) bad for you have been disproven,” wrote one.
Another said: “I’ve read a few articles on MSG or Chinese restaurant syndrome. It was mainly an attack on ethnic communities by some who were just being racist!
“It’s OK in moderation! Umami seasoning is the same thing.”
KFC confirmed on its website that it uses MSG.
“Some of our food does contain MSG but rest assured, it’s only present at levels that are safe for the general population,” the fast food giant states on its website.
“It’s a recognised flavour enhancer that also occurs naturally in foods such as meat, fish, milk, vegetables, fruits and cheese.”
7NEWS.com.au has reached out to KFC for further comment.
Food safety authority Food Standards Australia New Zealand has confirmed that MSG is safe for people to consume.
“Food Standards Australia New Zealand (FSANZ) reviewed the safety of MSG in 2003 concluding ‘there is no convincing evidence that MSG is a significant factor in causing systemic reactions resulting in severe illness or mortality’,” it states on its website.
“In Australia and New Zealand, no food additive - including MSG - is approved for use in food until its safety has been established by FSANZ.
“MSG and other glutamates are among a group of food additives that are generally permitted in foods, due to their safety.”
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