Tag: Guar gum allergy

High doses of guar gum once led to such serious health problems that the FDA banned its use in certain weight-loss products. While regulated amounts in processed foods are considered safe, a small percentage of individuals still experience adverse effects, raising the question: what health problems does guar gum cause?

While generally recognized as safe in the quantities found in many processed foods, guar gum can cause a range of negative side effects, especially with high-dose consumption or without adequate liquid intake. The most common issues are digestive, though more serious complications like intestinal obstruction can occur. Understanding these potential downsides is crucial for safe use.

Over 90% of packaged food items contain additives to enhance texture and stability. INS 412, more commonly known as guar gum, is one such additive, and while generally recognized as safe, its consumption can lead to side effects, especially in high doses or sensitive individuals.