Ajinomoto is a leading Japanese food brand dedicated to promoting health and well-being through delicious, nutritious products. Central to the brand is the concept of umami, the savory “fifth taste” discovered by Dr. Kikunae Ikeda.
In 1899, Dr. Ikeda visited Germany and observed the strong physiques and good health of the people there. Inspired to improve the nutrition of the Japanese population, he developed AJI-NO-MOTO, the world’s first umami seasoning, in 1909. Made from glutamic acid, it provided scientifically proven nutritional benefits and addressed malnutrition challenges in Japan.
