And Xantham Gum

Xanthan gum is a polysaccharide, a type of complex carbohydrate. It is made by fermenting a sugar with a specific type of bacteria, *Xanthomonas campestris*. The resulting gum is then dried and ground into a powder.

Manufacturers add xanthan gum to foods as a thickener and stabilizer. It helps prevent ingredients from separating and gives foods a smoother texture. It is commonly found in salad dressings, sauces, baked goods, and dairy products.

In the U.S., xanthan gum is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA. It is approved as a food additive for various uses. International bodies like JECFA and EFSA have also evaluated xanthan gum. At typical consumption levels, it is not associated with adverse health effects. Some studies suggest it may have a mild laxative effect or cause bloating in very large amounts, but this is not a concern at normal dietary intake.