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What is xanthan gum?

Xanthan gum is an additive used as a thickener, stabiliser and emulsifier. It's created when strains of the xanthomonas campestris bacteria are fed a solution of glucose that's been derived from corn, soy, dairy or wheat. The bacteria ferments the sugary solution and as a result, develops a sticky protective coat that has a consistency that makes it suitable for binding and thickening. It's these properties that make xanthan gum useful in food production – most notably in gluten-free baking, where it helps starches combine and improves the texture, rise and shelf-life of gluten-free bakes.

Xanthan gum is also used in numerous household products, from wallpaper paste to cosmetics.

Availability

Most supermarkets stock it in the 'free from' section of the store. You'll also find it in health shops and online.

Store it

It will last a long time in a dry, cool place.

Cook it

Xanthan gum can be added in small quantities to a variety of recipes. It's often added to sauces and dressings as a thickener and emulsifier, or gluten-free baked goods as a stabiliser. Discover recipes and ways to use it here.

For even more information, check out our full guide on xanthan gum.

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