E415

E415 is a common food ingredient that you may find listed on food labels. This ingredient is known as xanthan gum and is often used as a thickening agent in many food products. Xanthan gum is a polysaccharide, which means it is a type of carbohydrate made up of sugar molecules. It is usually derived from fermented sugars, often from corn, soy, or wheat.

To make xanthan gum, sugars are fermented by a specific kind of bacteria called Xanthomonas campestris. This fermentation process creates a gooey substance, which is then dried and ground into a fine powder to produce xanthan gum. The result is a white or cream-coloured powder that dissolves easily in water and helps to thicken and stabilise foods.

Xanthan gum is added to various foods to improve their texture and consistency. You may find it in products like salad dressings, sauces, dairy products, gluten-free baked goods, and ice cream. It helps prevent ingredients from separating, improves the shelf life of products, and creates a smoother, more enjoyable eating experience. So, the next time you spot E415 on a food label, know that it is there to enhance the overall quality of the product.

Foods in the CalorieStar database containing E415