Why So Many Nigerian Homes Banned “White Maggi” but Still Ate MSG

Many Nigerians who grew up in the 1980s, 1990s and early 2000s remember the warning: “Don’t use white Maggi.” In some homes, it was blamed for hypertension, stroke, blindness, stomach problems and other illnesses, so it was completely banned. The fear was linked to old reports and rumours about monosodium glutamate, or MSG. AJI-NO-MOTO is a pure MSG seasoning in white crystals, unlike the familiar brown seasoning cubes. Its appearance made many people see it as a chemical rather than a cooking ingredient. There was also a cultural angle. Some parents believed it was for “lazy cooks” because it quickly adds a savoury taste to food. Yet many households that rejected white Maggi still used seasoning cubes that may contain MSG. Ingredients differ by product, so checking the label is the best way to know what is in a seasoning. Food-safety authorities generally consider MSG safe for most people when consumed in normal food amounts. As with salt and other seasonings, moderation matters. Did your family ban white Maggi, and what reason were you given?

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