Preguntas frecuentes

What is the food additive called gellan gum? What is it derived from? Is it considered safe and healthy to consume?

Gellan gum is a versatile food additive primarily used as a gelling agent, thickener, and stabilizer. It is widely used in plant-based milk, jellies, and sauces to improve texture and prevent ingredient separation. 

1. Origin and Source 

It is not derived from plants or animals, but is produced through aerobic fermentation.

• Source Microorganism: It is secreted by the bacterium Sphingomonas elodea(formerly Pseudomonas elodea).

• Production: The bacteria ferment carbohydrate sources (like glucose or glycerol) to produce this high molecular weight polysaccharide.

• Key Feature: Because it is fermentation-derived and not animal-based, it is a popular vegan alternative to gelatin.
  
  The gellan-producing bacterium was isolated from lily plant tissue found in a pond in Pennsylvania, USA.
  

2. Safety and Health

Major food safety authorities consider gellan gum safe for consumption:

• Regulatory Status: It is approved by the FDA (listed as 21 CFR 172.665) and the EFSA (E 418 in the EU). Both agencies have deemed it safe and have not set a specific numerical limit on daily intake (ADI "not specified").

• Digestibility: It is non-digestible. The human body does not absorb it; it passes through the digestive system intact.

• Health Considerations:

  • Calories: It provides negligible calories.

  • Side Effects: It is generally well-tolerated. However, like other soluble fibers or gums, consuming it in very large quantities may cause mild gastrointestinal issues, such as bloating or a laxative effect.

  • Allergies: It is not a common allergen.

In summary, gellan gum is a safe, vegan-friendly texturizer derived from bacterial fermentation.