Ingredient
Gellan gum
What is Gellan gum?
Gellan gum is a polysaccharide produced by fermentation with the bacterium Sphingomonas elodea. It was discovered as a gelling agent that can be used in various food applications. Commonly, it appears in a powdered form and is noted for its strong gelling properties at low concentrations.
Gellan gum is used primarily as a thickener or stabilizer in foods, providing texture and consistency to products like dairy desserts, plant-based milks, and sauces. The health evidence regarding gellan gum indicates it is generally recognized as safe, with studies suggesting no adverse effects at typical consumption levels.
When reading labels, note that gellan gum is widely used in foods where gel-like properties are desired without the use of animal-derived gelatins, making it friendly for vegan diets.
Commonly found in: plant-based milks, dairy desserts, sauces, jellies, confectioneries
Gellan gum is approved by the FDA and is classified as Generally Recognized As Safe (GRAS) for use in foods.
Research generally supports the safety of gellan gum with current evidence suggesting no harmful effects from regular consumption within typical intake levels.
Gellan gum is not animal-derived and is commonly used in vegan products as a substitute for gelatin.
Sources: Overview of Gellan Gum Usage
Scout's take
Microbial-fermentation-derived thickener; inert and safe at typical concentrations.
The case against
May cause digestive discomfort in sensitive individuals when consumed in large amounts.
from the analysis of Planet Oat ORIGINAL OATMILK · echoed in 1 other analysisExcessive consumption may lead to digestive discomfort, but this is rare at typical usage levels.
from the analysis of Blue Diamond Almonds UNSWEETENED ALMONDMILK, VANILLAExcessive consumption may lead to digestive discomfort.
from the analysis of Blue Diamond ALMONDMILK, UNSWEETENED ORIGINALThe case for
Enhances texture and stability in food products, improving consumer experience.
from the analysis of Califia Farms TOASTED COCONUT ALMONDMILK BLENDImproves texture and stability of the product, providing a smooth consistency.
from the analysis of Planet Oat ORIGINAL OATMILKProvides texture and stability to the product, enhancing consumer experience.
from the analysis of Blue Diamond ALMONDMILK, UNSWEETENED ORIGINALMore from Scout's analyses
Gellan gum is a thickening agent used to stabilize and improve the texture of processed foods. It is a polysaccharide produced by bacterial fermentation. While generally recognized as safe, it is an additive that contributes to the ultra-processed nature of the product.
from the analysis of Blue Diamond ALMONDMILK, UNSWEETENED ORIGINALGellan gum is a gelling agent used to stabilize and thicken food products. It is produced through bacterial fermentation and is considered safe for consumption. It is commonly used in plant-based milks to improve mouthfeel and prevent separation.
from the analysis of Califia Farms TOASTED COCONUT ALMONDMILK BLENDGellan gum is a polysaccharide used as a gelling agent and stabilizer in processed foods. It is a synthetic additive that can affect the texture of food products. While it is generally safe, its presence indicates a higher level of processing.
from the analysis of Planet Oat ORIGINAL OATMILKFound in 8 products
Scan any product to see every ingredient explained — and healthier swaps.
Download on theApp Store GET IT ONGoogle Play