Ingredient · E415

Xanthan Gums

Auto-generated content. This description was generated automatically and is pending editorial review. Inaccuracies are possible. Found a mistake? Contact us.

Source
Not animal-derived
Allergen
No
Role in food
Manufacturers use xanthan gum as a thickener and stabilizer. It helps prevent ingredients from …

What it is

Xanthan gum is a polysaccharide, a type of complex carbohydrate. It is produced by the fermentation of sugar by a bacterium called *Xanthomonas campestris*. The resulting gum is then dried and milled into a fine powder.

Why it's used

Manufacturers use xanthan gum as a thickener and stabilizer. It helps prevent ingredients from separating and gives foods a smoother texture. You can find it in salad dressings, sauces, baked goods, and dairy products.

Health notes

Xanthan gum is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA. It is approved as a food additive in the US and many other countries. The Joint FAO/WHO Expert Committee on Food Additives (JECFA) and the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) have evaluated xanthan gum. While generally considered safe, very large amounts may cause digestive upset in some people. Research has not found significant health concerns at typical consumption levels.

Allergen info

Xanthan gum is not derived from any of the major allergens. It is also gluten-free.

Products containing Xanthan Gums

Compare products →

Last updated: September 28, 2026

Note: This site presents label data from USDA FoodData Central for general information. It is not medical advice. Check the package label; formulations change.