Chemical x Dictionary

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What is Guar Gum or Guar or INS 412?

Guar Gum is extracted from guar beans that helps in thickening and stabilising products in the food industry. It’s keto friendly, vegan and gluten free and generally the healthier substitute of most other gums added to processed foods. It’s high in soluble fiber and often helps with constipation. Its powder form is used in cosmetics, pharmaceuticals and other industries as it helps in emulsifying, binding and gelling functions. 

What are the other names this ingredient is also known as? 

Edible Gum (Guar Gum), Edible Gum (Gum Acacia), Edible Gum (INS 412), Emulsifier (E412), Emulsifier (INS 412), Emulsifier and Stabilizer (412), Emulsifying Agent (Guar Gum), Guar gum (INS412), Guar Gum E412, Gum, Natural Guar Gum, Stabilizer (E412), Stabilizer (INS 412), Stabilizing Agent (INS 412), Thickener (412), Thickener (INS 412), Thickeners(E412), Thickening Agent (E-412), Thickening Agent (INS 412)

What products is it used in?

It can be found in soups, stews, ice cream, yogurt, and marinades to improve texture and consistency.  It is also used in plant-based milks such as flax, almond, coconut, soy, and hemp. It is also used in baked products to give them a soft texture and extend their shelf life. We can also find it in pet foods of dogs and cats as it acts as a stabiliser. It can also be found in cosmetics like hair gel and shampoo products for its binding and emulsion abilities. 

What is the source of this ingredient?

INS 412 is considered natural. It is derived from guar beans, specifically from the endosperm of the guar plant seeds. Guar gum is commonly used as a thickening and stabilising agent in various food and industrial applications. Yes, as it is derived from the plant materials of Guar it is considered vegan and vegetarian. 

Is this ingredient bad for me?

Generally considered safe in normal amounts. However, since it’s high in fibre, it may cause digestive discomfort and symptoms like bloating, gas and cramps. 

What should you do?

It is generally safe and okay to consume


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