The Best Xanthan Gum Substitute for a Healthy Lifestyle

Are you suffering allergies from corn, wheat or soy? If so then you will want to read this article as we cover some of the possible side effects that can occur from consuming xanthan gum. We will also recommend a xanthan gum substitute for you to enable you to enjoy your healthy lifestyle. After reading this article you should be able to purchase a xanthan gum substitute below.

Searching for an affordable xanthan gum substitute can be difficult - so what exactly is the gum? Xanthan gum is a product derived from the fermentation of corn, wheat or soy. It is used as a thickening stabilizer agent in a wide variety of products from food to personal care products. You will find xanthan gum used in many types of food from salad dressings, frozen foods, beverages, egg substitutes, ice cream and flour based food products. Xanthan gum is also widely used in the cosmetic industry where the gum additive is used to thicken face creams and act as a binding agent to ensure product consistency.

Xanthan Gum is used in many gluten free flour depended goods including bread and pasta’s. An individual with an allergic reaction to corn , wheat or soy may have to find a replacement for xanthan gum as the gum may contain traces. Xanthan gum is not harmful to apply in food when consuming the recommended daily intake. If you are experiencing identified allergies or you could have possibly eaten a great amount of xanthan gum, then you just might be subjected to the probable unwanted side effects which may take place. Typical side effects that can occur from xanthan gum include migraine headaches, skin itchiness, nose and throat irritation. You can read more about the possible side effects on our post.

The Best Xanthan Gum Substitute

There are many gum substitutes available to try in your next baking adventure. We have found that different substitutes seem to work well in different situations. When we experimented making ice cream and bread with Guar Gum, the Guar Gum prevented ice crystals from forming on the ice cream and gave the ice cream a nice smooth taste. When making bread we actually found that the Guar Gum tended to produce a more grainier texture with a similar taste to gluten bread. The best xanthan gum substitute to use will depend on the application you need it for, whether you are baking a yummy cake, a thick sauce or some tasty ice cream. If you are looking for a xanthan gum substitute then try one of these great substitutes:

Chia Seeds

Chia Seeds are rich in protein, fiber and omega-3 fatty acids. The grounded chia seeds are used in porridges, puddings, breads and cakes. Chia seeds are very beneficial for your digestive track and help to hydrate your body.

Guar Gum

Guar Gum is an alternative thickener that is a water soluble fiber made from Guar Beans and is produced as an off-white coloured grounded powder. Guar Gum is more soluble and is a better stabiliser than Locust Bean Gum. It has 8x the thickening effectiveness of cornstarch. You can find out more information about Guar Gum here.

 

Flaxseed

Flaxseed is high in fiber, essential fats and lignans. Grounded flaxseed can easily be added to breads, muffins and cereals to enhance the crunchy nutty taste.

Arrowroot Powder

Arrowroot powder can be used as a thickening substitute to replace Xanthan Gum when making soups and sauces that need to be cooked at a lower temperature. When baking and needing a substitute, try arrowroot powder.

Cornstarch

Cornstarch is a good xanthan gum substitute and is used as a thickening agent in sauces, soups and gravies. Both Cornstarch and Arrowroot can be used in a 1:1 ration when replacing Xanthan Gum.

Agar Agar

Agar-Agar is derived from red algae and can be used as a thickener for soups, ice cream, vegetable gelatin. It is also used as a laxative and as an appetite suppressant. It can be used in a number of dairy free and vegan recipes.

Gelatin

Gelatin is derived from Collagen and is used as a gelling agent in cooking, gelatin desserts, ice cream, jams, cream cheese, margarine and yogurt.

Locust Bean Gum

Locust Bean Gum is a vegetable gum extracted from the seeds of a Carob Tree and is also know as Carob Gum. It is used as a thickening agent like Xanthan Gum. Using Locust Bean powder has a similar taste to cocoa powder and contains less calories. You can find out more information about Locust Bean Gum here.

Gum Arabic

Like Gelatin, Gum Arabic can be used as a binder/stabiliser and is used in candy, soft drink syrups and edible glitter. You can find out more information about Gum Arabic here.

Xanthan Gum Substitute Summary

Xanthan gum is safe to use unless you have a known allergy. For people who experience an allergic sensitivity to corn, soy or wheat you will likely want to purchase a replacement for xanthan gum from the list above. Allergic reactions can produce severe symptoms, if you do notice swelling or a rash developing please talk to your doctor or health professional.

From our experience we recommend purchasing Guar Gum or Locust Bean Gum as it makes a good xanthan gum substitute and is also less expensive than xanthan gum. Why not purchase a xanthan gum substitute today - your body will thank you for it!

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