Category
Thickeners & gums
Gums, starches and gels that give sauces, ice cream and gluten-free bread their texture.
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Agar-Agar E406Agar-agar (E406) is a seaweed gel that sets firmer than gelatin. It's safe, vegan, gluten-free, keto and kosher, and is the easiest plant swap for gelatin.Generally safeCarrageenan E407Carrageenan (E407) is a seaweed thickener in plant milks and deli meats. It's approved, but some studies link it to gut inflammation, so people with IBD often avoid it.Use in moderationGelatinGelatin is made from pig, cow or fish parts, so it is never vegan. It's only halal or kosher when certified, because most unlabeled gelatin comes from pork.Generally safeGuar Gum E412Guar gum (E412) is a bean-based thickener. It's safe, vegan, gluten-free and keto-friendly, and works best in cold foods like ice cream.Generally safeMaltodextrinMaltodextrin is a starch powder that raises blood sugar faster than table sugar (GI about 110). It's vegan and gluten-free, but not keto-friendly and worth limiting if you watch blood sugar.Use in moderationPectin E440Pectin (E440) is a fruit fiber that sets jam. It's one of the safest additives there is: vegan, gluten-free, halal and kosher.Generally safeXanthan Gum E415Xanthan gum (E415) is a thickener made by bacteria. It's safe, vegan, gluten-free and keto-friendly, and it's the go-to binder for gluten-free baking.Generally safe