Tara Gum
What is Tara Gum?
Tara gum is a natural thickening agent derived from the ground seeds of the tara plant (Caesalpinia spinosa), a shrub native to Peru. The process involves separating the endosperm from the germ and hull, then grinding the endosperm into a fine powder. It is a white to yellowish-white powder.
Is Tara Gum vegan?
Tara Gum is not animal-derived. Products that contain it can still include other animal-derived ingredients, so check the full ingredient list.
Is Tara Gum gluten-free?
It is also gluten-free.
Is Tara Gum a major allergen?
Tara gum is not derived from any of the nine FDA major allergens.
What is Tara Gum used for?
Manufacturers add tara gum to foods primarily as a stabilizer and thickener, improving texture and mouthfeel.
Is Tara Gum safe?
Tara gum is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for use as a food additive.
Why it's used
Manufacturers add tara gum to foods primarily as a stabilizer and thickener, improving texture and mouthfeel. It is often found in dairy products like ice cream and yogurt, as well as baked goods, sauces, and dressings. It can help prevent ice crystal formation in frozen desserts.
Health notes
Tara gum is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for use as a food additive. It is a source of dietary fiber. International bodies like the Joint FAO/WHO Expert Committee on Food Additives (JECFA) have evaluated tara gum. Evidence does not suggest adverse health effects at typical consumption levels.
Allergen info
Tara gum is not derived from any of the nine FDA major allergens. It is also gluten-free.
Foods that contain Tara Gum
Compare products →
Learn more
Auto-generated content. This description was generated automatically and is pending editorial review. Inaccuracies are possible. Found a mistake? Contact us.