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Answer: Disodium Guanylate is not currently banned worldwide, but health agencies have flagged concerns. The FDA still allows it in US food. Risk level: low. Commonly found in: Doritos Nacho Cheese, Lay's Kettle Cooked, Pringles.
TL;DR: Disodium Guanylate is allowed in the EU but allowed in the US (flavoring).
Reviewed for clarity & usefulness by the BannedPantry Parent Panel
Also called GMP. (E627) CAS 5550-12-9.
Other names: E627, sodium guanylate, GMP, guanosine-5'-monophosphate disodium salt
| EU status | Allowed |
|---|---|
| US status | Allowed |
| Risk level | low |
| Where it shows up | Doritos Nacho Cheese, Lay's Kettle Cooked, Pringles, Nissin Cup Noodles, Maruchan Ramen |
| CAS number | 5550-12-9 |
Disodium guanylate (E627) is the disodium salt of guanylic acid (GMP), a nucleotide naturally present in dried mushrooms, seaweed, and certain fish. It is used as a flavor enhancer with even greater synergy with glutamates than disodium inosinate. The combination of GMP and IMP (5'-ribonucleotides, E635) is one of the most potent umami enhancement systems available.
Dramatically potentiates umami flavors in processed foods, allowing reduced MSG use; used in combination with MSG and disodium inosinate in snack seasonings.
Considered safe at food use levels. As a purine nucleotide, it raises the same gout/hyperuricemia concerns as disodium inosinate. Commercial disodium guanylate is often derived from fish (sardines) or yeast, making it non-vegan and non-vegetarian in most commercial applications. People with gout should be aware of cumulative purine intake from these additives.
For educational use only. This page summarizes the regulatory status of Disodium Guanylatewith citations to the primary sources below. It is not medical advice. Regulatory status is not the same as a proven health effect — read the cited sources for their exact wording, and consult a doctor for decisions about your or your family's health.
Naturally occurring in dried shiitake mushrooms and nori seaweed, which provide the same GMP without additive labeling.
Often derived from fish or yeast. Always check with the manufacturer for vegan-specific sourcing.
Both are nucleotide flavor enhancers; GMP (guanylate) is slightly more potent in its synergy with glutamates. They are typically used together.
On chips, noodles, and seasonings — often in the fine print near MSG or as part of 'contains: soy, MSG.'
Yes, at typical food additive levels. Individuals with gout should limit purine-containing additives.
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