“What’s Really in Your Seasoning? A Closer Look at Popular Brands”

It’s sitting in your kitchen right now.

That seasoning bottle you’ve used for years.
The one you trust without thinking.

But recently, a viral video has people across the country asking a serious question:

“What am I actually putting on my food?”

The video, titled “10 U.S. Seasoning Brands to Avoid (And the 3 That Are Worth It)”, takes a deep dive into some of the most popular brands found in American households.

Among the brands called out were:

• Badia
• Accent (known for monosodium glutamate, or MSG)
• Lawry’s Seasoned Salt
• Morton Season-All
• Old Bay
• Tony Chachere’s
• Mrs. Dash

These aren’t obscure labels.

They’re staples in kitchens across Houston—and across the nation.

So what’s the concern?

According to the video, the issue isn’t always the spice itself…

It’s what’s added to it.

Some of the key ingredients and concerns mentioned include:

• MSG (Monosodium Glutamate)
  Commonly used to enhance flavor. While the U.S. Food and Drug Administration considers it safe in normal amounts, some people report sensitivity to it.
• Anti-caking agents
  Ingredients like calcium silicate are added to keep powders from clumping—but they don’t add any nutritional value.
• Artificial flavors & fillers
  Some blends rely more on additives than actual herbs and spices.
• High sodium levels
  Many seasoned salts contain large amounts of sodium, which can mask lower-quality ingredients.
• “Natural flavors” (undefined blends)
  A vague term that can include multiple processed components without full transparency.

What about safety?

It’s important to note:

Organizations like the U.S. Food and Drug Administration regulate these ingredients and generally classify them as safe when used properly.

However, the video argues that “safe” doesn’t always mean “optimal”—especially for people trying to eat clean or reduce processed inputs.

The brands considered “better”

The video highlights a few companies it claims are doing things differently:

• Simply Organic
• Frontier Co-op
• Primal Palate

These brands are praised for:

• Fewer additives
• Organic or non-GMO sourcing
• Clear labeling
• Simpler ingredient lists

Why this matters

For most people, seasoning is an afterthought.

A quick shake.
A habit built over years.

But this conversation is shifting that mindset.

Because once you start reading labels…

You realize not all flavor is created the same way.

The bottom line

This isn’t about fear.

It’s about awareness.

The seasonings many people use every day are regulated and widely considered safe—but they may still contain additives, sodium, or processing methods that don’t align with everyone’s health goals.

And in today’s world, more consumers are asking for one thing:

Transparency.

✍🏽 About the Author

Orvella Gilbert, known affectionately as “The Lovebug,” is a trusted voice for The SouthSide Signal, serving as a correspondent specializing in awareness, health, and holistic living.

With over 25 years of experience, she has dedicated her work to educating communities on making smarter, more informed lifestyle choices. Her passion lies in helping everyday people understand what they consume, how it impacts their bodies, and how small changes can lead to powerful transformations.

Through her writing, she continues to empower readers with knowledge that promotes health, clarity, and conscious living.

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