Locust bean gum (E410) – what is it?
Locust bean gum, also known as carob gum or locust bean gum, is a natural polysaccharide extracted from the seeds of locust bean pods (Ceratonia siliqua). It is a substance used as a food additive labeled E410, valued for its thickening, stabilizing and emulsifying properties.
Thanks to its unique molecular structure, locust bean gum has the ability to bind water, making it an excellent additive for products that require improved texture, viscosity or stability.
Properties of locust bean gum
Locust bean gum is distinguished by a number of beneficial properties. It is completely natural, gluten-free and suitable for vegans. Thanks to its high tolerance to various environmental conditions, such as pH and temperature, it is widely used in the food industry. In addition, it is easy to use and can be applied in small quantities, making it an economical option in food production.
Applications of locust bean gum
Locust bean gum is used in a wide range of food products, including bakery, dairy products, soups, sauces, desserts and beverages. It is also used as a thickening agent in vegetarian and vegan products, where it replaces gelatin. In addition, because of its water-binding properties, it is used in the meat industry to improve the texture and moisture content of products.
Where to buy locust bean gum?
Locust bean gum can be purchased at health food stores, supermarkets, as well as many online stores specializing in food additives. It is available in both powder and granular form, making it easy to use in various industrial and household applications.
Locust bean gum and its functions in foods
As a food additive, locust bean gum serves several key functions. First of all, it is a thickening agent that improves the texture and consistency of food products. It also acts as a stabilizer, preventing the stratification of ingredients in multiphase products such as sauces and beverages. Thanks to its emulsifying properties, it also makes it easier to combine ingredients that do not inherently mix, such as oil and water. All these properties make locust bean gum an indispensable ingredient in the production of many types of food.
