Natural Gums

Natural gums are a diverse group of polysaccharides extracted from plants, seeds, or produced by microbial fermentation. They are often processed with water or other solvents to create a usable ingredient. Examples include guar gum from guar beans, xanthan gum from bacterial fermentation, and carrageenan from seaweed.

Manufacturers add natural gums primarily to thicken, stabilize, and emulsify foods. They help create a smooth texture, prevent ingredients from separating, and improve mouthfeel. You'll find them in products like ice cream, salad dressings, sauces, baked goods, and dairy alternatives.

In the U.S., many natural gums are Generally Recognized As Safe (GRAS) by the FDA for use in food. Regulatory bodies like the Joint FAO/WHO Expert Committee on Food Additives (JECFA) and the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) have evaluated various gums, often setting acceptable daily intake levels. While generally considered safe in typical food amounts, some individuals may experience digestive discomfort from high intakes of certain gums, like xanthan gum.