What Is Xanthan Gum?
Xanthan gum is a polysaccharide and a “bio-gum” produced by natural fermentation in starch or sugar solutions. It is a substance soluble in hot and cold water, consisting of repeating units of glucose main chains with side chains consisting of mannose and glucuronic acid.
Xanthan gum is known as one of the easiest thickening agents to handle because it can be used to create various viscosities depending on the amount added.
It is also characterized by its resistance to heat, acid, salt, freezing, and thawing, and its ability to handle a wide range of conditions. However, since it is made from a natural product, its viscosity can vary from lot to lot, which has been cited as a disadvantage.
Uses of Xanthan Gum
Xanthan gum are type of thickening agent that may be used for two purposes: simple thickening and gelling. Because it is a substance produced from natural fermentation, it is safer than synthetic substances and is often used in foods, cosmetics, and other products.
For thickening purposes, xanthan gum is added by itself and used for thickening.
For gelling purposes, it is used in combination with roasted bean gum to form gels. It is also possible to synergistically thicken the solution, so the combination of thickening agents is also important.
Properties of Xanthan Gum Solution
Xanthan gum solution is non-Newtonian fluid with the property of pseudoplastic flow. Pseudoplastic flow is a property in which the viscosity decreases when a force is applied and increases when the solution is left in a state in which no force is applied. Many foods in tube containers, such as mayonnaise and ketchup, have this property.