Ingredient · E415

Xanthan Gun

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

What it is

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

Why it's used

Manufacturers use xanthan gum primarily as a thickener and stabilizer. It helps prevent ingredients from separating and improves the texture of foods. It is commonly found in salad dressings, sauces, baked goods, and dairy products.

Health notes

In the U.S., xanthan gum is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA. It is not metabolized by the body and passes through undigested, acting as a soluble fiber. International bodies like JECFA and EFSA have evaluated xanthan gum. While generally considered safe, very high intakes may cause digestive discomfort in some individuals.

Allergen info

Xanthan gum is not derived from any of the nine major allergens and does not contain gluten.

Products containing Xanthan Gun

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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.