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Source
Not animal-derived
Allergen
No
Role in food
Tragacanth gum is used as a thickener and stabilizer in foods. It helps to …
What it is
Tragacanth gum is a natural gum derived from the dried sap of several species of legumes in the genus Astragalus. The sap is collected from the plants, dried, and then ground into a powder. It is a complex mixture of polysaccharides.
Why it's used
Tragacanth gum is used as a thickener and stabilizer in foods. It helps to improve the texture and consistency of products like sauces, dressings, and desserts. It is also used in baked goods and confectionery.
Health notes
Tragacanth gum is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for use in food. It is poorly absorbed by the body and is considered a dietary fiber. International bodies like the Joint FAO/WHO Expert Committee on Food Additives (JECFA) and the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) have evaluated tragacanth gum, and it is permitted for use in many countries.
Allergen info
Tragacanth gum is not derived from any of the nine FDA major allergens. It does not contain gluten.
Note:
This site presents label data from USDA FoodData Central for general information. It is not medical advice.
Check the package label; formulations change.