Maharashtra FDA tests Maggi noodles

The tests will also ascertain whether the MSG level is as per the Gross Manufacturing Practices norms

Maharashtra Food and Drugs Administration (FDA) on Friday said tests of Maggi noodles samples collected from Mumbai and Nagpur would find out the exact quantity of monosodium glutamate in the popular snack.

Expected within a week, the reports would have inputs of food technologists and analysts.

Monosodium glutamate (MSG) is derived from some forms of seaweed or from tin, and is stabilised by mixing with water and salt.

Whether or not it causes serious ailments has been debated by researchers for much mid- to late 20th century.



An FDA official who did not want to be named told Business Standard: “Tests will reveal the extent of glutamic acid, lead and MSG levels in Maggi noodles. We shall know if the MSG level is according to the Gross Manufacturing Practices norms.”

He added the sample sent for the tests were from the products available at present in the market and not older ones.

State FDA minister Girish Bapat confirmed the tests and said the findings would be shared with the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India.

Industry experts shared FDA’s view, saying the testing of MSG is crucial as a lot of method development issues are involved so as to differentiate the naturally occurring glutamic acid and synthetically manufactured MSG.