Question

State the uses of xanthan gum that is obtained by microbial processes.

Answer 1

Hint: Xanthan is popularly known as the food thickener or stabilizer. Xanthan gum has good commercial value due to its different properties and uses. It is also known for its usage in the medicines for diabetes, constipation etc. It is made from a bacteria that is known as an infecting of various plants.

Complete answer:
Xanthan gum is a polysaccharide food additive obtained from a bacteria known as Xanthomonas Campestris by the process called fermentation. Carbohydrate i.e. sugar is fermented with the help of the bacteria which gives a thick goo-like substance by the addition of alcohol. It is also used in the making of medicines. It can form a highly viscous solution even at a very low concentration. This property of xanthan Gum makes it an efficient stabilizer. Although a major disadvantage is its slow dissolution degree. Amongst multiple benefits, Xanthan gum is also used for its aiding properties of soil as it treats oil spills in soil. The molecular weight of this polymer is very high and it is stable at different PH and temperature values. It is also used for pigment suspension in hair colour and many makeup formulations.

Following are the multiple other uses of Xanthan gum:
• Salad dressings and sauces
• Suspend solid particles
• Texture creator in ice –cream
• Thickening of liquids
• Give stickiness to the batter without the use of gluten
• Increases viscosity of the liquid

Note: Xanthan gum is derived from a micro bacteria Xanthomonas campestris that is used in the fermentation of sugar molecules. Fermentation is a metabolic process that works in the absence of oxygen for energy extraction from carbohydrates with the help of enzymes.