Is Disodium Guanylate Banned? EU vs US Status, Risks & Where It Hides
TL;DR: Disodium Guanylate is allowed in the EU but allowed in the US (flavoring).
Also called GMP. (E627) CAS 5550-12-9.
Other names: E627, sodium guanylate, GMP, guanosine-5'-monophosphate disodium salt
Is Disodium Guanylate banned in the EU?
| 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 |
What is Disodium Guanylate?
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.
Why is Disodium Guanylate used in food?
Dramatically potentiates umami flavors in processed foods, allowing reduced MSG use; used in combination with MSG and disodium inosinate in snack seasonings.
Is Disodium Guanylate dangerous? Documented risks
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.
Common US products containing Disodium Guanylate
How to avoid Disodium Guanylate: safer alternatives
Naturally occurring in dried shiitake mushrooms and nori seaweed, which provide the same GMP without additive labeling.
Frequently asked questions about Disodium Guanylate
Is disodium guanylate vegan?
Often derived from fish or yeast. Always check with the manufacturer for vegan-specific sourcing.
What is the difference between disodium guanylate and disodium inosinate?
Both are nucleotide flavor enhancers; GMP (guanylate) is slightly more potent in its synergy with glutamates. They are typically used together.
Where does the name 'disodium guanylate' appear on labels?
On chips, noodles, and seasonings — often in the fine print near MSG or as part of 'contains: soy, MSG.'
Is disodium guanylate safe?
Yes, at typical food additive levels. Individuals with gout should limit purine-containing additives.
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Sources
- EFSA re-evaluation of guanosine-5'-disodium monophosphate (E 627) — EFSA
- FDA Flavor Enhancers — 21 CFR 172.530 — FDA
Our scores are never influenced by brands. Last updated 6/11/2026.