Disodium inosinate (E631) is a food additive often found in instant noodles, potato chips, and a variety of other snacks. It is used as a flavor enhancer, in synergy with monosodium glutamate (the sodium salt of glutamic acid, MSG). As it is a fairly expensive additive, it is not used independently of glutamic acid; if disodium inosinate is present in a list of ingredients but MSG does not appear to be, it is likely that glutamic acid is provided as part of another ingredient.

Precautions

• usually made from meat (especially sardines or other fish)
• may trigger gout
• not permitted in foods for infants or young children

See also