Xanthan Gum: Properties, Uses & Applications - A Comprehensive Guide

Xanthan gum is commonly seen in ingredient lists for processed foods, as well as some non-food products such as cleansers. However, many people are not sure what it is.

What It Is

• Xanthan gum is a polysaccharide gum commercially produced for the food industry.

Where It Comes From

• To make xanthan gum, producers allow corn sugar to be fermented by a bacterium called Xanthomonas campestris.

What It's Used In

• Xanthan gum can be found in processed foods, including salad dressings, dairy products, packaged meat and poultry, sauces, baked goods and drinks. It can also be used in non-food products, such as toilet bowl cleaners.

Why It's Used

• Xanthan gum improves a product's stability, and thickens and emulsifies products.

What Properties It Has

• Xanthan gum is used partly because it works well alongside many other ingredients and in different kinds of solutions, whether those solutions are acidic or alkaline.