Xanthum Gum CH010

Xanthan Gum is a natural polysaccharide (a type of carbohydrate) that is used as a food additive and in various industrial applications due to its ability to thicken, stabilize, and emulsify. It is produced by fermenting glucose or sucrose with the bacterium Xanthomonas campestris. Its chemical formula is (C35H49O29)·(Na)2.

Here are some key uses and properties of xanthan gum:

1. Food Industry:

   • Thickening Agent: Xanthan gum is commonly used in sauces, soups, dressings, and dairy products to increase viscosity without altering the taste.
   • Emulsifier: It helps in stabilizing emulsions, like in salad dressings, where oil and water need to be kept from separating.
   • Gluten-Free Baking: In gluten-free recipes, xanthan gum is used to replace gluten, helping to give the dough or batter a better texture and structure.

2. Cosmetic and Pharmaceutical Industries:

   • Stabilizer: It is used in lotions, creams, shampoos, and toothpaste to improve texture and prevent separation of ingredients.
   • Controlled Release: In pharmaceuticals, xanthan gum is sometimes used as a binder in tablets and a medium in controlled drug release formulations.

3. Industrial Uses:

   • Oil and Gas Industry: In hydraulic fracturing (fracking), xanthan gum is used to thicken water, which helps in carrying sand or other materials into rock formations.
   • Textiles and Paper: It is used in textile printing, as well as in paper manufacturing, to improve texture and strength.

Xanthan gum is known for its ability to maintain its thickening properties across a wide range of temperatures and pH levels, making it versatile for both food and non-food applications.