Chungjungone Miwon is Korea's most widely used umami seasoning. Its primary ingredient is Monosodium Glutamate (MSG), produced through a fermentation process. Umami is the fifth basic taste — after sweet, salty, sour, and bitter — and describes a deep, rich, savoury flavour. It is the same family of flavour you experience in Parmesan cheese, well-ripened tomatoes, or mushrooms. Miwon is a concentrated umami seasoning: adding a small amount to soups, stir-fries, or seasoned dishes significantly deepens the overall flavour. Use it as you would salt, but in far smaller quantities — a pinch is enough.

Chungjungone Miwon is suitable for both vegans and vegetarians. The primary ingredient, Monosodium Glutamate (MSG, 97.3%), is produced via fermentation and contains no animal-derived raw materials. However, the small amounts of Disodium Inosinate (E631) and Disodium Guanylate (E627) also present may be derived from fish or yeast sources, so strict vegetarians are advised to confirm the ingredient origin directly with the manufacturer (Daesang). This product is also gluten-free. Halal certification has not been officially confirmed at this time; those following a halal diet should contact the manufacturer before purchasing.

A little Miwon goes a long way. As a general guide, no more than ¼ teaspoon (approx. 1g) per two servings is recommended. If you are using it for the first time, start with a small pinch (the amount you can pick up between three fingers) and adjust to taste. Important note: Miwon (MSG) contains sodium and is therefore a high-sodium seasoning. When using Miwon, reduce the amount of other salty condiments such as salt or soy sauce to manage your overall sodium intake. Miwon is not a replacement for salt but a complement to it — it allows you to achieve a richer flavour while using less salt overall.

Store Chungjungone Miwon in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. After opening, transfer to an airtight container or resealable bag to prevent moisture from getting in. As MSG is a crystalline powder, exposure to humidity may cause it to clump, but this does not affect the quality. Simply break up any clumps with a spoon before use. Refrigeration is not required. Please check the best-before date printed on the packaging and use the product before that date. As this is a 1kg large-format product, it is well suited for long-term use in the home.

Miwon (MSG) is a versatile umami-enhancing seasoning that can be used in a wide range of dishes beyond Korean cuisine. In Korean cooking, it is used in small amounts in broth-based dishes (soups and stews), stir-fries, seasoned vegetable side dishes (Namul), and Mandu (dumpling) fillings to deepen the umami flavour. It can equally be applied to European cooking. For example, adding a pinch to pasta sauces, soups, stews, or sautéed vegetables brings out the natural flavour of the ingredients more fully — the same principle by which Parmesan cheese or anchovies add depth to a dish. In accordance with EU food labelling regulations, Miwon is a pure umami seasoning (not a health product), and using it in small amounts during cooking is recommended.