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Herbs & Spices
Is cumin high in glutamates?
Is cumin high or low in glutamates? See its exact rating, how much counts as a portion, and its FODMAP, salicylate, oxalate and diet compatibility in one place.
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Sensitivity notes
Why glutamates food checker matters
Glutamates, including MSG, are flavor enhancers found naturally in many foods and added to others. Some people report sensitivity causing headaches, flushing, or other symptoms, though research on 'MSG syndrome' is mixed.
- MSG goes by many names - look for 'glutamate' on labels
- Naturally high in soy sauce, fish sauce, and aged cheeses
- Tomatoes and mushrooms are naturally high in glutamates
- Yeast extract and hydrolyzed proteins contain glutamates
- Fresh, unprocessed foods are generally lower
Sensitivities
What cumin contains
FODMAPs
Histamine & Amines
Plant compounds
Irritants
Additives
Allergens
Diet fit
Where cumin fits
Therapeutic diets
Lifestyle diets
Religious diets
What to know about cumin
Cumin is high in salicylates and, as a seed-based spice, it is excluded during the AIP (autoimmune protocol) elimination phase along with other seed spices. So cumin can appear as a trigger on two separate lists: a low-salicylate diet and strict AIP. In curry, chili and spice rubs it is often used by the tablespoon, which is a much larger salicylate dose than a single pinch.
Watch for
- High in salicylates, easy to overlook because cumin is used generously in curry, chili and spice blends
- A seed-based spice, so it is removed during AIP elimination and reintroduced only in later stages
- Anti-inflammatory in itself, so on AIP it is excluded for being a seed, not for driving inflammation
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Glutamates Guide
Everything you need to know about glutamates sensitivity and smart food choices.
Glutamates, including MSG, are flavor enhancers found naturally in many foods and added to others. Some people report sensitivity causing headaches, flushing, or other symptoms, though research on 'MSG syndrome' is mixed.
Sensitivity varies widely. What triggers one person may be fine for another. Track your reactions to find your personal threshold.
These foods are generally well-tolerated for Glutamates sensitivity:
View all safe options
These foods have moderate levels and may be tolerated in small amounts:
These foods are high in glutamates and may trigger symptoms:
View full list
If you're sensitive to Glutamates, consider these strategies:
- 1MSG goes by many names - look for 'glutamate' on labels
- 2Naturally high in soy sauce, fish sauce, and aged cheeses
- 3Tomatoes and mushrooms are naturally high in glutamates
- 4Yeast extract and hydrolyzed proteins contain glutamates
- 5Fresh, unprocessed foods are generally lower
Pro tip: Keep a food diary to track your reactions. The Triggerbites app makes this easy with automatic pattern detection.
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Get the AppFAQ
Is cumin high in Glutamates?
Glutamates: low signal for most people.
Can I still eat cumin if I'm sensitive to Glutamates?
Usually fine in normal portions.
What else should I check?
Check AIP, Salicylates, and Low Salicylate next for a fuller picture.