DO YOU REALLY KNOW WHAT IT IS?

You've probably never heard of Xanthan gum but chances are that you consume it several times every week! So, here are a few things you should know.

Xanthan gum is the isolated coating of a bacterial mold which is commercially grown on the sugar of corn but also grows on soy, wheat and some vegetables. That's right! You know those black spots on some of your overdue veggies in the fridge, like broccoli? Yes, my friend, meet bacterium Xanthomonas campestris. The sugar and the bacteria create a slimy substance which is dried, made into powder and can be found on shelves in stores. Sounds like a horror story but no, it's quite real, and it gets worse! Xanthan gum is used in the oil drilling industry as lubricant and most gluten-free bread contains this slimy ingredient as well!

So why do people use it? Well, when gluten is missing, which is natures great binder, Xanthan gum does a great job! However, it's shocking that mold slime would be considered a viable ingredient for human consumption. And there are other binders available in nature! Thankfully here at Simple Kneads we are aware of that.

So, when shopping be sure to read your labels. Xanthan gum iis known to give side effects like bloating, gas, upset stomach to flu-like symptoms and even lung problems!

It is recommended that those who suffer from severe wheat, corn soy or dairy allergies should avoid Xanthan gum.

Sandy K Workman
SK Director of Brand Development