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MANUSCRIPT 

Monosodium Glutamate Exposure in Fast 

Food and Its Contribution to Obesity Risk 

Among College-Aged Hispanics on the Texas-

Mexico Border 
 

Marisol Acosta1,  Delgado Barbara1,3, Garcia Jeyra1,3, Gomez Liani1,2, Martinez David1,3, 

Mendoza  Marcelo1,3, Susa Reeanne1.3, Torres Marian1,2, Winkler Sarah1,2 

 

1DHR Health High School and Community Outreach  
2 STISD Medical Professions 
3STISD Health Professions 

 

Received: July 3, 2024 

Accepted for publication: January 24, 2025  

Introduction 

This literature review examines the potential link between monosodium glutamate (MSG) 

exposure through fast food consumption and obesity risk among college-aged Hispanics residing 

on the Texas-Mexico border. The high prevalence of obesity and related comorbidities among 

US Hispanics/Latinos  necessitates investigation into various contributing factors, including 

dietary habits and the consumption of processed foods often containing MSG.1 While research 

directly linking MSG to obesity in humans remains inconclusive, several studies suggest 

potential mechanisms and indirect associations warranting further exploration, especially within 

specific at-risk populations.2 This review will synthesize existing research on MSG's effects, 

dietary patterns of border Hispanics, and the role of the food environment in shaping health 

outcomes. 

Monosodium Glutamate (MSG): A Review of Potential Health Implications 

MSG, a flavor enhancer widely used in processed foods, including many fast-food items, is the 

sodium salt of glutamic acid.2-3  While generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by regulatory 

bodies, concerns persist regarding its potential long-term health effects.4-5  Animal studies have 

demonstrated MSG's neurotoxicity, particularly when administered neonatally.2-3,6-7  These 

studies report various adverse effects including weight gain, obesity, and changes in behavior 

and memory.2-3  However, the extrapolation of these findings to human populations, especially 

with regards to oral consumption at levels typically found in food, remains a significant 

challenge.8  Furthermore, the mechanisms through which MSG might contribute to obesity are 

not fully understood.2,9  Some research suggests that MSG may influence leptin resistance, 



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inhibit growth hormone, and increase central adiposity.2  Other studies point to MSG's potential 

role in disrupting the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal (HPG) axis, affecting reproductive function 

and potentially influencing metabolic processes.9  A recent study even suggests a link between 

MSG exposure and cardiovascular disease risk, highlighting the need for further investigation 

into its multifaceted effects on health.5  The inconsistencies between animal and human studies 

concerning the dosage and effects of MSG necessitate caution in interpreting the results.4  

Several studies have focused on the development of methods for measuring MSG in various 

matrices, including food products and biological samples.10-11  This development is crucial for 

accurate assessment of MSG exposure and its potential health consequences. The development 

of accurate and reliable methods for measuring MSG in different food matrices is crucial for 

understanding actual exposure levels and their potential implications.10-11  Further research is 

needed to clarify the specific mechanisms by which MSG might influence metabolic processes 

and contribute to obesity. 

Dietary Habits and Obesity among College-Aged Hispanics on the Texas-Mexico Border  

The Texas-Mexico border region presents a unique context for studying obesity and dietary 

habits. This area is characterized by a high prevalence of obesity among Hispanic populations, 

influenced by a confluence of factors including acculturation, socioeconomic status, and access 

to healthy food options.12-15  Studies have shown that acculturation to American culture is often 

associated with shifts in dietary patterns, increasing the consumption of processed foods, sugary 

drinks, and fast food.14,16  The transition to a "Westernized" diet, often high in saturated fats, 

refined carbohydrates, and sodium, is a significant contributor to obesity risk.13-17  Moreover, 

limited access to fresh produce and healthy food options, particularly in low-income 

communities, creates a "food desert" effect, exacerbating the issue.12  The complex interplay 

between acculturation, socioeconomic factors, and the food environment makes it challenging to 

isolate the specific contribution of MSG to obesity risk within this population. A significant 

portion of the diet among this population consists of prepared foods, some of which are 

processed at high temperatures, potentially altering the MSG content and bioavailability.18 The 

high consumption of prepared foods across both rural and urban regions of this area necessitates 

further investigation into the role of MSG and other food additives in shaping dietary patterns 

and obesity risk.18 Furthermore, the role of cultural norms and food preferences in shaping 

dietary choices should be considered in future interventions aiming to improve dietary quality 

among Hispanic groups.14  

MSG Exposure from Fast Food and Obesity Risk: Connecting the Dots 

While no studies directly address the specific contribution of MSG exposure from fast food to 

obesity risk in college-aged Hispanics on the Texas-Mexico border, several lines of evidence 

suggest potential indirect associations. The high consumption of fast food, often rich in MSG and 

other unhealthy ingredients, is a well-established risk factor for obesity.12,15,19  The potential 

mechanisms by which MSG might contribute to obesity, such as its influence on leptin resistance 

and growth hormone, as discussed earlier, could be particularly relevant in a population already 

at high risk due to other dietary and lifestyle factors.2  Moreover, the prevalence of emotional 

eating, a behavior linked to increased fast food consumption, could further exacerbate the impact 

of MSG exposure.19  The high prevalence of overweight and obesity among this population 

highlights the need for further research in this area.1,20-21  The high prevalence of obesity among 



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college-aged females in Saudi Arabia, as well as the significant correlation between perceived 

body size and BMI, suggests a similar trend that might be applicable to college-aged Hispanic 

women on the Texas-Mexico border.21  The impact of psychosocial factors should be considered 

in future research, as these factors may influence body image perception and dietary choices.21  

Additionally, the effect of racial/ethnic discrimination as a psychosocial stressor on BMI and 

other CVD risk factors among college students of color suggests that these factors should also be 

taken into account when studying obesity in this specific population.22  

Research Gaps and Future Directions  

Several critical research gaps need to be addressed to fully understand the contribution of MSG 

exposure from fast food to obesity risk among college-aged Hispanics on the Texas-Mexico 

border. Firstly, longitudinal studies are needed to track MSG intake and its association with weight 

change over time within this specific population.13 Cross-sectional studies, while providing 

valuable insights, cannot establish causality.23  Secondly, more research is required to assess MSG 

exposure levels from fast food specifically consumed by this demographic. This would require 

detailed dietary assessments and analysis of MSG content in commonly consumed fast-food items 

within the region.18  Thirdly, studies should investigate the interaction between MSG exposure and 

other dietary and lifestyle factors that contribute to obesity risk in this population.12,14-15  This 

includes examining the impact of acculturation, socioeconomic status, access to healthy food, and 

physical activity levels.16-17  Fourthly, research should investigate the potential mediating role of 

emotional eating and other psychological factors in the relationship between MSG exposure and 

obesity.19  Finally, culturally relevant interventions are needed to address dietary habits and 

promote healthier eating behaviors within this community.14,24  Furthermore, the role of food 

marketing and its impact on the consumption of MSG-containing fast food, particularly among 

youth, needs further investigation.24  

Conclusion  

While the direct link between MSG exposure from fast food and obesity risk in college-aged 

Hispanics on the Texas-Mexico border is not definitively established, several indirect 

associations exist. The high prevalence of obesity in this population, coupled with the 

widespread consumption of fast food and the potential mechanisms through which MSG might 

contribute to obesity, warrants further investigation. Future research should address critical 

research gaps through longitudinal studies, detailed dietary assessments, and consideration of the 

interaction between MSG exposure and other relevant factors. Such research is critical for 

developing effective interventions to address the significant public health challenge of obesity in 

this vulnerable population. The development of culturally sensitive interventions that address the 

complex interplay between food environment, dietary habits, and psychosocial factors is 

essential for promoting healthy eating behaviors and reducing obesity risk within this population. 

Furthermore, the potential impact of MSG on the reproductive system and the long-term health 

consequences of MSG consumption warrant further investigation. The potential for MSG-

induced genotoxic effects also needs further study in human populations. The role of genetic 

factors in taste perception and food preferences should also be taken into account, as these 

factors could influence the consumption of MSG-containing foods. Finally, the influence of food 

insecurity on dietary choices and obesity risk in this population should be considered. The high 

prevalence of food insecurity among college students suggests that this factor could further 



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exacerbate the risk of obesity. Addressing the multifaceted issues of food insecurity, dietary 

habits, and the impact of MSG requires a comprehensive approach that combines scientific 

research with culturally sensitive interventions. 

Acknowledgements 

Nori Zapata, MSN, RN, Senior Vice President of Education and Career Development, Vanessa 

Vera, MS, Senior Manager of High School and Community Outreach, Anisa Mirza, Intern 

Program Coordinator.  

Funding: 

Funded  by  DHR  Health High School and Community Outreach; DHR Health; South Texas 

Independent School District.  

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