What Are Food Gums?

When you hear the word "gum," you might think of chewing gum, but food gums are a common ingredient found in many processed foods. These additives are primarily used as thickening agents, stabilizers, and emulsifiers to improve texture and shelf life.

While generally recognized as safe by the FDA, some food gums can negatively impact digestion, nutrient absorption, and even respiratory health. In this article, we explore the different types of food gums and their potential effects on your body.

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The Purpose of Gums in Food

Food manufacturers add gums to products for several reasons, including:

Despite their functional benefits, food gums may have unintended health consequences, particularly when consumed in large amounts.

Common Food Gums & Their Health Risks

Three of the most common food gums used as additives in packaged food are:

Xanthan Gum: Digestive Disruptor

Xanthan gum is widely used in gluten-free products, sauces, and dressings to improve texture. However, it may cause:

The good news is that there are plenty of gluten free options that don't include Xanthan gum. These Bread Srsly sandwich rolls are a good option:

Guar Gum: Health Benefits & Hazards

Guar gum, found in ice cream and baked goods, has been linked to both positive and negative health effects:

Cellulose Gum: A Processed Fiber With Side Effects

Cellulose gum, made from wood pulp, is often used as a thickener and fiber supplement. Possible concerns with consuming cellulose gum include:

Consuming this in your coffee creamer every day likely isn't a good idea. Check out this swap for a better option:

Tips for Avoiding Food Gums in Your Diet

If you're unsure if a food contains food gums, scan it with the Trash Panda App! If a food you scan contains gums, simply tap "other choices" to find cleaner options with no potentially harmful ingredients.