Inherent Nutrition

What is xanthan gum?

Xanthan gum is a polysaccharide mainly used as a stabilizing or thickening agent. It originates from a microb (bacteria) called Xanthomonas compestris.

What is the manufacturing process?

The process starts when a bacteria, known as Xanthomonas compestris, is added to the fermentation of corn sugar. After fermentation is complete, the gooey substance is washed in isopropyl alcohol, dried, and milled (grounded); the remaining substance is an xanthan gum powder. When added to water, or liquid, it forms a gel-like paste. Xanthan gum is used in products like cereals, ice cream, salad dressings, and condiments.

The FDA states that xanthan gum is GRAS and the USDA states that “xanthan gum is naturally derived and technically does not envolve any synthetic processing.” This is important because many believe that xanthan gum is a synthetic product and therefore avoid it.

References:

1. Biopolymer International regards Xanthan Gum as safe
2. FDA stance on Xanthan Gum
3. USDA experiments on Xanthan Gum
4. USDA stance on whether xanthan gum is synthetic