味精的英文名称是 monosodium glutamate，也叫做 MSG。它的来源是从酵母菌中提取出来的一种天然酸性盐，它能够增强食物的味道。例如：

This dish tastes great, is there MSG in it?

这道菜很好吃，里面有没有味精？

I try to avoid MSG in my cooking because it can cause headaches in some people.

我尽量不在烹饪中使用味精，因为它会让一些人头痛。

I think a little MSG can really enhance the flavor of a dish.

我认为一点点味精能真正增强菜肴的风味。