The belief that MSG (monosodium glutamate) "makes you stupid" and triggers a range of dangerous diseases circulates widely in Indonesia. The claim is misleading.
What we checked
Social-media posts and popular belief link MSG consumption with reduced intelligence and serious illness. We reviewed MSG safety assessments from domestic and international food authorities.
Evidence
Indonesia's Food and Drug Authority (BPOM) and the US FDA both classify MSG as a food additive that is safe to consume within reasonable limits. The joint FAO/WHO expert committee (JECFA) set MSG's acceptable daily intake as "not specified" — a category reserved for substances with a strong safety profile.
A small number of people report mild, temporary symptoms such as headaches after consuming large amounts of MSG. However, those symptoms are not consistent across double-blind scientific trials. No scientific evidence links MSG to reduced intelligence.
Conclusion
MSG is safe within reasonable consumption limits and does not cause stupidity. This exaggerated danger claim is misleading.