Originally Posted by
braslvr
Not really an artificial 'flavor' per se, but I have to admit that there are a few things that a bit of MSG really works wonders in.
Mmmmm, glutamates
MSG is preferable to the various hydrolized proteins and yeast extracts used as a "more natural" alternative in a lot of prepared foods.
Real natural glutamates in food (seaweed and parmesan cheese, especially!) are better still.
As for artificial flavors in general, sometimes things "taste right" to me and sometimes they "taste fake." In rare cases, the latter aren't even from artificial flavors (preservatives/preparation can do it - shelf stable citrus juices, for example.) As long as it tastes good, I don't care much where it comes from.