xanthan

American  

[zan-thuhn] / ˈzæn θən /

noun

Nutrition.

1. a water-soluble natural gum produced by the fermentation of sugar with certain microorganisms and used as a binder, extender, or stabilizer in foods and other products.

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Etymology

Origin of xanthan

1960–65; probably Xanth(omonas campestris) bacterium which produces the gum + -an, variant of -ane

Example Sentences

Common ingredients used are corn or rice flour, xanthan gum, which acts as a binder and moisture holder, and tapioca starch, which is a good water absorbent and can aid with binding the dough.

From Salon • Feb. 20, 2024

In this investigation, the research team employed the biopolymer xanthan gum in combination with an ionically conductive polymer to fashion a protective film for the battery electrode.

From Science Daily • Nov. 14, 2023

The bakery is not only free from gluten and the other seven most common allergens, but also free from rice, corn, potatoes and xanthan gum.

From Seattle Times • May 16, 2023

“It’s not just the salt and sugar, which are the obvious ones, but the artificial sweeteners, artificial colors, emulsifiers, stabilizers, guar gum and xanthan gum,” he said.

From Washington Post • Sep. 27, 2022

I’m betting it got its creaminess from xanthan gum or some other additive.

From "The Omnivore's Dilemma" by Michael Pollan