Sterculia gum

Sterculia gum is a natural gum obtained from the Sterculia genus of tropical trees. It is also known as Karaya gum, due to its primary source, the Sterculia urens tree. The gum is used in various industries, including food, pharmaceutical, and cosmetic industries, due to its unique properties.

Origin and Production

Sterculia gum is primarily produced from the Sterculia urens tree, a species native to India and Pakistan. The gum is harvested by making incisions in the tree trunk, from which the gum exudes as a milky substance. This substance hardens upon exposure to air, forming tear-shaped droplets that are collected and processed into a usable form.

Properties and Uses

Sterculia gum is a complex polysaccharide that is soluble in hot water. It forms a viscous solution when dissolved, which has led to its use as a thickening and stabilizing agent in the food industry. It is also used as a binder and disintegrant in the pharmaceutical industry, and as an emulsifier in the cosmetic industry.

In the food industry, Sterculia gum is used in products such as ice cream, salad dressings, and sauces, where it helps to improve texture and stability. In the pharmaceutical industry, it is used in tablet formulations, where it helps to ensure the uniform distribution of active ingredients and aids in tablet disintegration.

Health Benefits

Sterculia gum is a source of dietary fiber and has been used in traditional medicine for its laxative properties. It is also used in weight management products, as it can help to promote feelings of fullness and reduce calorie intake.

Safety and Regulation

Sterculia gum is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in the United States. It is also approved for use in food by the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA).

See Also

• Gum arabic
• Guar gum
• Xanthan gum