Less Than 2%: Acacia
Auto-generated content. This description was generated automatically and is pending editorial review. Inaccuracies are possible. Found a mistake? Contact us.
What it is
Acacia, also known as gum arabic, is a natural gum made from the hardened sap of the acacia tree. It is harvested from several species of acacia trees, primarily in the Sahel region of Africa. The sap is collected, dried, and then processed into a powder or granules.
Why it's used
Acacia is commonly used as a food additive for its thickening, emulsifying, and stabilizing properties. It helps to bind ingredients together, improve texture, and prevent separation in products like chewing gum, candies, and baked goods. It can also act as a stabilizer in beverages and a coating for confections.
Health notes
In the U.S., acacia is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA. It is considered a source of soluble dietary fiber, which may have benefits for gut health. International bodies like JECFA have evaluated acacia and found it to be safe for consumption. Evidence does not suggest adverse health effects at typical intake levels.
Allergen info
Acacia is not derived from any of the nine FDA major allergens. It does not contain gluten.