What is gellan gum?
Gellan gum is a versatile, water-soluble polysaccharide that functions as a thickener, stabilizer, and gelling agent in a wide array of food products. It is created through the fermentation of a sugar source, such as glucose or lactose, by a specific strain of bacteria known as Sphingomonas elodea. The resulting polysaccharide is purified, dried, and milled into a fine powder for commercial use. Gellan gum is a popular choice for food manufacturers because it is effective at very low concentrations and provides a clear, stable gel that can withstand heat.
High acyl vs. low acyl gellan gum
Interestingly, gellan gum is available in two main forms, which produce different textures and properties when used in food:
- High Acyl (HA) Gellan Gum: This form contains the acyl groups left over from the bacterial fermentation process. It creates soft, elastic, and flexible gels. It is often used to give a creamy texture to products like certain yogurts or desserts.
- Low Acyl (LA) Gellan Gum: The acyl groups are removed during processing to produce this form. It results in hard, firm, and brittle gels. This type is typically used for applications requiring a firm, clear gel, such as certain confectioneries or desserts.
Common uses of gellan gum
As a food additive (E418 in the EU), gellan gum has a variety of applications.
In beverages:
- Fortified plant-based milks and juices
- Chocolate milk (to prevent cocoa solids from settling)
In confections and desserts:
- Vegan gummies and candies
- Fruit fillings and jellies
- Certain custards and puddings
In other food products:
- Processed meats and noodles
- Salad dressings and sauces
- Yogurt
Beyond the food industry, gellan gum is also used in pharmaceuticals for drug delivery and in cosmetics. Its microbial origin makes it a popular plant-based, vegan alternative to gelatin.
Is gellan gum bad for you? The safety profile
For most people, the small amounts of gellan gum found in processed foods are widely considered safe for consumption. Extensive research has been conducted on its safety, leading to its approval by major regulatory bodies globally, including the FDA in the United States and the EFSA in Europe. These organizations concluded that there is no safety concern at the typical use levels of the additive.
Key safety findings include:
- Poor absorption: Gellan gum is not absorbed or digested by the human body. Instead, it passes through the digestive system largely intact, similar to how dietary fiber works.
- Non-toxic: Studies on both humans and animals have shown no evidence of toxicity, even when very high doses were consumed. Human trials involving daily intake significantly higher than typical dietary levels showed no adverse effects over a 3-week period.
- No carcinogenicity or genotoxicity concerns: Expert panels have found no evidence linking gellan gum to cancer or damage to genetic material.
Potential side effects and digestive considerations
While generally safe, gellan gum can cause some minor digestive issues in sensitive individuals due to its fiber-like properties. Since it is indigestible, it can affect gut function.
Possible side effects may include:
- Bloating
- Gas
- Diarrhea (if consumed in large amounts)
For those with sensitive guts or conditions like Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS), it is advisable to monitor intake and symptoms carefully. Some research also suggests that certain food additives, including gellan gum, could potentially alter gut microbiota, though more research is needed to fully understand this effect.
Comparison: Gellan Gum vs. Other Gums
To understand gellan gum better, it's helpful to compare it to other common hydrocolloids. While they all serve similar purposes, their properties and applications can differ significantly.
| Feature | Gellan Gum | Xanthan Gum | Carrageenan | Agar-Agar |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Source | Bacterial fermentation (Sphingomonas elodea) | Bacterial fermentation (Xanthomonas campestris) | Red seaweed extraction | Red algae/seaweed |
| Vegan/Plant-Based | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Typical Texture | Versatile (brittle or elastic gel) | Thick, viscous, non-gelling | Firm gel (various types) | Firm, brittle gel |
| Clarity | Very clear | Opaque | Clear | Clear |
| Effectiveness | Effective at very low concentrations | Requires higher amounts than gellan | Moderate concentration needed | Moderate concentration needed |
| Melting Point | High melting point | Stable over a wide temperature range | Thermoreversible gels | High melting point |
| Safety Concerns | Minimal; some digestive issues in sensitive individuals | Generally recognized as safe | Controversial; linked to potential inflammation issues | Generally recognized as safe |
Conclusion: The verdict on gellan gum
In summary, gellan gum is a safe and highly effective food additive that performs critical functions like thickening, stabilizing, and gelling in many processed products, including vegan alternatives. Its production process through bacterial fermentation makes it a suitable plant-based alternative to animal-derived gelatin. For the vast majority of people, consuming gellan gum in the tiny amounts present in foods is not a concern, as supported by decades of scientific research and regulatory approval. While some individuals with fiber sensitivity may experience minor digestive issues, these effects are typically mild and not indicative of a broader safety risk. As with any processed food, moderation is advisable, but there is no need to avoid gellan gum based on its safety profile.
For more detailed information on food additive safety regulations, the European Food Safety Authority provides comprehensive re-evaluations and scientific opinions: Re-evaluation of gellan gum (E 418) as food additive.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is gellan gum vegan and gluten-free?
Yes, gellan gum is produced by bacterial fermentation of a carbohydrate source, not from animal products, making it suitable for vegan and vegetarian diets. It is also naturally gluten-free.
Why is gellan gum used in plant-based milks?
Gellan gum is added to plant-based milks like almond or soy milk to act as a stabilizer and suspending agent. It prevents solid particles and minerals, such as calcium, from settling at the bottom, ensuring an even distribution of nutrients in each glass.
Can gellan gum cause digestive problems?
In small amounts, gellan gum is unlikely to cause issues. However, because it acts as a soluble fiber, large quantities or high sensitivity can lead to mild side effects like bloating, gas, or diarrhea in some people.
How does gellan gum compare to xanthan gum?
While both are stabilizers produced by bacterial fermentation, they have key differences. Gellan gum can form a clear, heat-resistant gel, while xanthan gum is primarily a non-gelling thickener that creates a viscous solution. Gellan gum is also effective at much lower concentrations.
Is there an acceptable daily intake (ADI) for gellan gum?
Major food safety authorities, including the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA), have concluded that there is no need to establish a numerical acceptable daily intake (ADI) for gellan gum, citing its high safety profile at current consumption levels.
What does gellan gum do in food?
It functions as a gelling agent, thickener, and stabilizer. In desserts, it provides a gel texture; in beverages, it keeps ingredients suspended; and in various processed foods, it improves texture and shelf life.
Should I avoid foods with gellan gum?
For most people, avoiding gellan gum is unnecessary, as it is considered safe by global health organizations. If you have a sensitive digestive system and suspect it may be causing issues, you can try limiting processed foods containing it, but it is not inherently bad for you.
