Gum acacia

Definition

Gum acacia, also known as gum arabic, is a food gum derived from the acacia tree. It is a commonly used stabilizer, emulsifier, binder, and thickener, particularly in confectionery.

Health considerations

Gum acacia is a source of soluble dietary fiber. In combination with another soluble dietary fiber it showed cholesterol-lowering effects. It is not digested in the small intestine, instead undergoing fermentation in the large intestine. This gives it a prebiotic effect; encouraging growth of gut microbiota. Additionally, unlike many fibers fermented in the large intestine it is not associated with negative gastrointestinal effects. See: Prebiotics, Soluble fiber.

May be found in

Soft drinks, candies, confectionery, candy coated chocolate, edible glitter, marshmallows, gumdrops, chewing gum, icing, fillings

References

Gums and Stabilisers for the Food Industry 9
Journal of the American College of Nutrition
Microbial Ecology in Health and Disease
Modernist Pantry

Alternative Spellings and Names

Gum arabic, E414