E627 — Disodium guanylate
E627 (Disodium guanylate), a flavor enhancer, is rated "watch": fine in moderation. A flavor enhancer almost always paired with MSG. A purine derivative; people with gout or hyperuricemia should limit intake.
What is Disodium guanylate?
A flavor enhancer that amplifies the umami effect of MSG, often used in stock cubes, savory snacks, instant noodles, and processed meats. Almost never used alone because it is expensive.
What does it do to the body?
Your body metabolises it to purines, which break down to uric acid. People with gout or hyperuricemia should limit intake. Not permitted in food for infants under 12 weeks.
What regulators say
EFSA assessed it as safe at current use levels but has not set a specific numerical acceptable daily intake. The FDA approves it as GRAS.
Risk rating: Watch
Mixed evidence or a specific concern (gut, allergy, or contested safety data). Not alarming, but worth keeping an eye on rather than eating without limit.