In brief: Guar gum is made from guar seeds and is used as soluble fibre and the thickener E412.
Typical uses
| Product | Function |
|---|---|
| Ice cream | Stabilisation |
| Sauces | Thickening |
| Gluten-free baking | Structure |
| Fibre products | Water binding |
Dosing
Small amounts thicken strongly. Too much can give an unpleasant texture and cause digestive symptoms.
FAQ
Is guar gum gluten-free?
Naturally, yes.
What does E412 mean?
The EU food-additive number.
Can it cause gas?
Yes.
Is guar gum the same as xanthan?
No.
Conclusion
Guar gum is a very effective thickener and fibre. Small amounts are usually enough in cooking.