International Numbering System (INS) for Food Additives: 418
Food additives Europe numbers: E418
Gellan gum, also known as Gelrite or Kelcogel, is a versatile food additive with interesting gelling properties. Here's a breakdown of its properties, applications, and safety considerations:
What is Gellan Gum?
Gellan gum is a microbial polysaccharide, meaning it's a complex sugar produced by the microorganism Sphingomonas elodea. Through a two-step process, it's transformed into a water-soluble and functional food additive:
- Carboxymethylation: Cellulose, a plant fiber, undergoes a chemical reaction to introduce carboxymethyl groups, making it more soluble in water.
- Enzymatic Hydrolysis: Enzymes break down the large cellulose molecules into smaller, more manageable chains.
Functional Properties:
Gellan gum offers several functionalities useful in various food applications:
- Gelling Agent: At higher concentrations, it forms strong gels, providing structure and texture in various food products.
- Thickener: It can increase the viscosity of liquids, creating thicker sauces, soups, and gravies.
- Thermosetting: Gellan gum gels form at high temperatures (>80°C) and remain stable even at cold temperatures, offering unique textural control.
- Synergistic Effects: It can interact with other ingredients like starches or locust bean gum to create specific textures.
Applications in Food:
Due to its gelling and thickening properties, gellan gum finds applications in a variety of processed foods:
- Jellies and Desserts: Creates heat-stable gels for jellies, puddings, and other desserts.
- Confectionery: Used in gummy candies and other confections for texture and stability.
- Bakery Products: Improves texture and moisture retention in fillings, icings, and glazes.
- Beverages: Can be used as a thickener or stabilizer in some beverage applications.
- Low-fat Products: In some cases, it can be used as a fat replacer, reducing fat content while maintaining some textural properties.
Safety:
- Generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA for use in food at controlled levels. Regulatory bodies have established safe intake levels.
- Gellan gum is not digested by humans and is considered non-toxic.
Important Considerations:
- The specific functionality of gellan gum depends on the concentration and interaction with other ingredients. Food scientists carefully choose the right type and amount for the desired texture in a particular food product.