Xanthan gum (or zanthan gum) is a polysaccharide which derives its name from the bacteria used in its formation, Xanthomonas campestris. The production process begins with the fermentation of sugars. It functions as a food additive, food thickening agent, emulsifier and even medicine. Available in either powder or liquid form, xanthan gum is found in everyday products such as salad dressing, toothpaste and ice cream.
Thickener
Xanthan gum is mainly used to thicken foods. The bacteria which is used in the fermentation process creates the thickening substance. Although some individuals may be allergic to the gum, the bacteria used in its creation is not harmful. Just a little gum can thicken a great amount of product. In baking breads and cakes, xanthan gum is sometimes added to the flour to change the consistency of the batter. It is often used in conjunction with other thickeners.
Stabilizing Agent
Xanthan gum is a recognized stabilizing agent which keeps ingredients from separating from one another. As such, it is used to bind different particles in cosmetic products, salad dressings, pastries and sauces. It also keeps solid particles suspended in liquids formations. Manufacturers sometimes add xanthan gum to toothpaste so the water content binds with the other ingredients. When you add xanthan gum to ice cream, it lessens the ice crystals and makes the ice cream last longer.
Health
Xanthan gum also has medicinal purposes. According to WebMD, xanthan gum can potentially lower blood sugar in diabetes patients and decrease your cholesterol levels. It also functions as a laxative. WebMD explains that when taken as a laxative, the gum swells in the intestine and pushes stool further through the digestive tract. The World Health Organization advises that your intake of xanthan gum should be no more than 10mg per day in foods, and 15g per day when taken as a laxative.
Industrial Purposes
Xanthan gum has numerous functions in the oil and construction industries. For instance, xanthan gum keeps particles suspended in drilling fluid and thickens concrete. When lubricating their oil pumps, companies add xanthan gum to water to ensure a better lubricating product. The thickness of this lubricant also ensures that more oil is extracted from the well. Companies choose xanthan gum because it is not affected by the pH of its environment and because it can withstand extremes in temperature.
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