What Is Xanthan Gum?

Xanthan gum is a popular food additive that's commonly added to foods as a thickener or stabilizer.

It's created when sugar is fermented by a type of bacteria called Xanthomonas campestris. When sugar is fermented, it creates a broth or goo-like substance, which is made solid by adding an alcohol. It is then dried and turned into a powder.

When xanthan gum powder is added to a liquid, it quickly disperses and creates a viscous and stable solution. This makes it a great thickening, suspending and stabilizing agent for many products.

It was discovered by scientists in 1963. Since then, it has been well researched and determined safe. Therefore, the FDA has approved it as a food additive and placed no limitations on the amount of xanthan gum a food can contain.

Even though it's made in a lab, it's a soluble fiber. Soluble fibers are carbs that your body cannot breakdown.

Instead, they absorb water and turn into a gel-like substance in your digestive system, which slows digestion .

Therefore, your body is unable to digest xanthan gum, and it does not provide any calories or nutrients.

Where Is Xanthan Gum Found?

Xanthan gum is found in food, personal care and industrial products.

Food Products

Xanthan gum can improve the texture, consistency, flavor, shelf life and appearance of many foods.

It also stabilizes foods, helping certain foods withstand different temperatures and pH levels. Additionally, it prevents foods from separating and allows them to flow smoothly out of their containers.

It's used frequently in gluten-free cooking since it can provide the elasticity and fluffiness that gluten gives traditional baked goods.

The following are some common foods that contain xanthan gum:

· Salad dressings

· Bakery products

· Fruit juices

· Soups

· Ice creams

· Sauces and gravies

· Syrups

· Gluten-free products

· Low-fat foods

Personal Care Products

Xanthan gum is also found in many personal care and beauty products. It allows these products to be thick, but still flow easily out of their containers. It also allows solid particles to be suspended in liquids.

The following are some common products that contain xanthan gum:

· Toothpaste

· Creams

· Lotions

· Shampoo

Industrial Products

Xanthan gum is used in many industrial products due to its ability to withstand different temperatures and pH levels, cling to surfaces and thicken liquids, all while maintaining good flow.

Common industrial products containing xanthan gum include:

· Fungicides, herbicides and insecticides

· Tile, grout, oven and toilet bowl cleaners

· Paints

· Fluids used in oil drilling

· Adhesives like wallpaper glue