Xanthan gum

You might consume xanthan gum several times a week but haven’t heard its name before. If you take a look at some food products, toothpaste, and shampoos, you probably see it on the ingredient label. But what is xanthan gum?

Xanthan gum is a polysaccharide that was discovered in 1963, and until now, many studies have been done about it.

Where to by xanthan gum?

If you would like to know any further information about xanthan gum`s price and how to order this item, our team at Shanghai Chemex will be glad to help you with that.

Xanthan gum properties

Xanthan gum can increase the viscosity of the product, which is why this item is so popular in a wide range of industries.

What is xanthan gum made out of?

“Xanthan gum is produced by the fermentation of glucose and sucrose. The medium is well-aerated and stirred, and the xanthan polymer is produced extracellularly into the medium. After one to four days, the polymer is precipitated from the medium by the addition of isopropyl alcohol, and the precipitate is dried and milled to give a powder that is readily soluble in water or brine.”

Wikipedia

Here is the xanthan gum structure:

This polysaccharide affects products in three ways:

1. Thickening: This additive is able to make products more thick. Thickness is an important factor in both food and cosmetic products.
2. Stabilizing: Stabilizers don’t let unwanted changes take place. Many industries should use stabilizers in their product formulations.
3. Emulsifier: If we have two liquids that are not able to mix together, using xanthan gum will disperse one liquid into another.

Xanthan gum uses

In this part we are going to explain some of its applications.

Cosmetics

Industries use xanthan gum in cosmetic and personal care products such as lotion, shampoo, toothpaste, and creams. Why? Because it makes them thicker so that they can easily flow out of their containers.

• Xanthan gum for skin

It is commonly used in skin care products. Actually, it is used because of the product’s texture, not its effect on the skin.

Industrial products

Xanthan gum can also help many industrial products resist different temperatures and pH levels. For example, fungicides, paints, and wall paper glues contain xanthan gum.

Food industries

This material is the reason for ice cream’s desired texture. And one of the advantages is that it doesn’t affect the flavor or color. Moreover, this additive is suitable for people who are looking for either gluten free or vegan foods.

What are the benefits?

• Stabilizing blood sugar: Several studies have been done that show that xanthan gum is able to reduce blood sugar levels. Because it can affect the entry of sugar into the blood stream by slowing digestion.
• Reducing cholesterol: There was a study in which five people consumed the recommended amount of xanthan gum. After 23 days, their examination showed that their cholesterol level had decreased by 10 percent.
• Improving dysphagia: People who have problems swallowing foods can use this additive. However, it is important to note that using too much of this additive may cause digestive issues.

Xanthan gum side effects

Some people may get upset stomachs after consuming this food additive, so you should pay attention to the intake amount.

The bottom line

Xanthan gum is a chemical item that has a significant effect on the product’s viscosity. It is widely used in the food and cosmetic industries. This chemical item has many benefits for your health. For example, it helps control blood sugar, reduce cholesterol, and improve dysphagia.

Frequently asked questions

Is xanthan gum healthy or not? 

This chemical item has many benefits for your health. For example, it helps control blood sugar, reduce cholesterol, and improve dysphagia.

What does xanthan gum do?

Xanthan gum can also help many industrial products resist different temperatures and pH levels. For example, fungicides, paints, and wall paper glues contain xanthan gum.

What can be used instead of xanthan gum?

Guar gum, agar agar, and cornflour can be used instead of this chemical item.

Is xanthan gum vegan?

This food additive is suitable for people who are looking for either gluten free or vegan foods.

What are the side effects of xanthan gum?

Some people may get upset stomachs after consuming this food additive, so you should pay attention to the intake amount.