Many gums used in the food industry as thickening agents or emulsion stabilizers are primarily composed of complex carbohydrates, also known as polysaccharides.
Xanthan gum is a polysaccharide with many industrial uses, including as a common food additive.
It is an effective thickening agent and stabilizer that prevents ingredients from separating.
It can be produced from simple sugars by fermentation and derives its name from the species of bacteria used, Xanthomonas campestris.
