Quick Answer
Chick-fil-A states that none of the items on their menu contain added MSG (monosodium glutamate). However, some items may naturally contain small amounts of glutamates from ingredients like tomatoes, cheese, and chicken.
Detailed Answer
MSG is a common food additive used to enhance flavor. However, some people claim to be sensitive to MSG and want to avoid it in their diet.
Chick-fil-A has stated that they do not add MSG to any of their menu items. Here are some key facts about MSG and the Chick-fil-A menu:
- MSG occurs naturally in ingredients like tomatoes, cheese, and chicken. While Chick-fil-A does not add MSG, some menu items will naturally contain small amounts of glutamates.
- The most common reaction to MSG is temporary headache and flushing. True MSG allergy is very rare.
- Chick-fil-A uses real dairy cheese, which will contain some natural glutamates.
- Fresh chicken breast is used in sandwiches and nuggets. This chicken contains glutamates.
- Sauces and dressings like buffalo and ranch are made with ingredients like yogurt and tomato that contain natural glutamates.
Based on their public statements, it appears that Chick-fil-A does not add MSG to their menu items. However, glutamates will be present in small amounts naturally. People with MSG concerns may want to avoid sauces and dressings, as these likely contain the highest levels of natural glutamates.
Full Chick-fil-A Menu Without Added MSG
Here is the full Chick-fil-A menu that does not contain added MSG:
- Chicken Sandwiches (classic, spicy, deluxe)
- Chicken Nuggets
- Waffle Fries
- Kale Crunch Side
- Chicken Soup
- Chicken Salad
- Wraps (grilled chicken, spicy, Southwest)
- Salads (spicy southwest, Cobb, garden)
- Icedream Cone
- Milkshakes (cookies & cream, chocolate, strawberry, vanilla)
- Fruit Cup
- Chicken Tortilla Soup
- Hash Browns
While the ingredients in these menu items may naturally contain glutamate, there is no MSG added during preparation or cooking according to Chick-fil-A.
Should You Avoid MSG?
While Chick-fil-A does not add MSG, it is important to understand the facts about this controversial food additive:
- MSG occurs naturally in many foods like tomatoes, cheese, mushrooms, and broths.
- Some people report reactions to large doses of MSG like headaches, flushing, and numbness.
- However, MSG sensitivity is not an allergy and there is limited evidence of harm for most people.
- The FDA classifies MSG as Generally Recognized as Safe (GRAS).
Unless you experience reactions to MSG, there is no need to avoid it completely. The small amounts that occur naturally in Chick-fil-A menu items are unlikely to cause issues for most people. Those with concerns can avoid sauces and dressings where glutamate levels are highest.
Chick-fil-A’s Stance on MSG
Chick-fil-A has clearly stated that they do not add MSG to their recipes. Here are some key facts about their MSG usage:
- In 2016, a Chick-fil-A spokesperson said “Chick-fil-A does not use MSG in any of our food products.”
- On their website, they state: “Chick-fil-A does not use MSG in any of our recipes. Some ingredients we use may contain minute traces of naturally occurring free glutamate, like tomatoes and mushrooms.”
- Ingredients listed for Chick-fil-A menu items do not contain added MSG.
Based on this information direct from Chick-fil-A, customers can be assured that there is no MSG added during food preparation. A trace amount of naturally-occurring MSG may be present, but no more than many common whole foods.
Alternatives to Chick-fil-A That Are MSG-Free
For customers wishing to eat fast food but avoid even naturally occurring MSG, some alternative restaurants also state they do not use this additive, including:
- In-N-Out Burger – States they do not use MSG in their core menu items.
- Whataburger – Says no MSG is added to their products.
- Chipotle – Ingredients and prep do not include added MSG.
These fast food chains specifically advertise that they do not use added MSG in their ingredient lists and food prep. For those seeking to strictly reduce free glutamate intake, these may be preferable alternatives to Chick-fil-A.
Tips for Ordering at Chick-fil-A with MSG Concerns
For those wishing to minimize MSG content in their Chick-fil-A order, these tips may help:
- Avoid sauces and dressings, as these contain the most free glutamate.
- Order grilled chicken sandwiches without cheese.
- Opt for fresh fruit cup rather than creamy desserts.
- Request no marinade on the grilled chicken.
- Choose water or diet soda instead of milkshakes.
Following these guidelines when ordering can help reduce free glutamate coming from ingredients like cheese, sauces, dressings, and marinades. While not completely MSG-free, this approach can lower natural glutamate levels substantially.
Conclusion
Chick-fil-A has clearly stated that they do not add MSG to any menu items. While small amounts of naturally-occurring glutamates are present in ingredients like tomatoes and chicken, the food is free of added MSG. By avoiding sauces and dressings, those with MSG concerns can minimize exposure from their Chick-fil-A meal. For maximum MSG avoidance, other fast food chains like In-N-Out may have lower levels of free glutamates.