Galactomannan

Galactomannan is a polysaccharide composed of mannose and galactose units. It is a type of heteropolysaccharide found in the endosperm of a number of legume seeds such as fenugreek, guar, and locust bean gum. Galactomannan has a variety of uses in food and industrial applications due to its ability to form a gel in water.

Structure

Galactomannan is a linear polymer of mannose residues linked by β-(1→4)-glycosidic bonds with α-D-galactose units attached by α-(1→6)-glycosidic bonds. The ratio of mannose to galactose varies depending on the source of the galactomannan, with guar gum having a high mannose to galactose ratio and locust bean gum having a lower ratio.

Properties

Galactomannan has the ability to form a gel in water, which makes it useful in a variety of applications. It is also highly soluble in water and has a high viscosity, which makes it useful as a thickening agent.

Uses

Galactomannan is used in a variety of applications, including food, pharmaceuticals, and industrial applications. In food, it is used as a thickening agent, stabilizer, and emulsifier. In pharmaceuticals, it is used as a binder and disintegrant. In industrial applications, it is used in the production of paper, textiles, and drilling fluids.

Health Benefits

Galactomannan is a type of dietary fiber that can have a number of health benefits. It can help to regulate blood sugar levels, reduce cholesterol levels, and promote a healthy digestive system.

See Also

• Guar gum
• Locust bean gum
• Fenugreek
• Polysaccharide
• Mannose
• Galactose