Tag: Natural thickener

Sterculia gum, a natural polysaccharide harvested primarily from the tree species *Sterculia urens*, is commercially known by several names. The most recognized of these is karaya gum, used widely in the food, pharmaceutical, and cosmetic industries for over a century.

In 2024, the United Kingdom imported approximately £1.5 million worth of Detarium microcarpum products, commonly known as Ofor, demonstrating this West African ingredient's growing international appeal. While often appreciated for its rich, hearty flavor and thickening properties in Nigerian cuisine, many are now curious about its deeper nutritional value and health benefits.

With many wellness trends making headlines, sea moss has emerged as a popular superfood, boasting a high concentration of essential vitamins and minerals. Yes, you can absolutely put sea moss in a drink, and it's one of the easiest ways to incorporate this nutritious algae into your daily routine. Used for centuries in various cultures, sea moss gel is valued for its ability to act as a natural thickener and nutrient booster in beverages.

According to research published in the *Journal of Medicinal Food*, sea moss contains high levels of iodine, an essential mineral for thyroid health. This nutrient-rich profile makes seamoss powder a versatile supplement and ingredient for wellness seekers.

Pectin is a naturally occurring polysaccharide found in the cell walls of most fruits, and the short answer is yes, vegans can eat fruit pectin without any concerns about animal products. It has long been a staple in kitchens for making jams and jellies.

Did you know that chia seeds, on average, contain between 5% and 10% soluble fiber, which forms a gel-like mucilage when hydrated? This versatile polysaccharide can be easily extracted and used for a wide range of culinary and cosmetic applications right from your kitchen.

Used in traditional Chinese medicine for over 2,000 years, kudzu root yields a starch treasured for its medicinal properties. But is kudzu starch healthy in today's context, and what does modern science say about this ancient ingredient used for everything from thickening sauces to potentially alleviating menopausal symptoms?

Citrus peels can contain as much as 30% pectin on a dry basis, making them an exceptionally rich natural source. Knowing what foods contain citrus pectin can be invaluable for home cooks aiming for perfect jams and health-conscious individuals looking to boost their fiber intake.

Apples are one of the richest natural sources of pectin, with the fruit's pulp containing roughly 15–20% of this soluble fiber. What is apple pectin, and how does this powerful gelling agent benefit both home cooks and those seeking wellness? It is a versatile polysaccharide with numerous applications.

A single ounce of chia seeds delivers nearly 10 grams of dietary fiber, and when added to a blended drink, they can profoundly transform its texture and nutritional profile. This guide explains exactly what happens when you add chia seeds to a smoothie, detailing the surprising benefits and changes you can expect from this superfood boost.