Uses of Guar Gum

Guar gum is a natural substance obtained from the guar plant, which is native to India. The guar bean contains a large endosperm that contains the gum. This gum is used in a variety of industries because of its beneficial properties, which include solubility in hot and cold water; resistance to oils, greases and solvents; and remarkable thickening action.

Food Industry

• Guar gum is used heavily in the food industry in products ranging from cheeses to dressing and sauces. This gum acts as a stabilizer, thickener and suspending agent in a wide assortment of foods. Bakers use guar to reduce batter mixing time, increase food shelf life through the gum's water absorption properties, and reduce the crumbling of cake. It is used in frozen desserts for its ability to withstand freeze-thawing. Guar gum is found in condiments such as sauces and gravies, in dried and canned dog food, and in canned baby food.

Technical Industry

• A multitude of industries use guar gum. Textile businesses use it to thicken dyes and reduce warp breakage. The oil industry uses guar gum as a suspending agent for sand for drilling mud. The mining trade uses the gum to concentrate ore. It is even used in explosives as a waterproofing agent.

Cosmetic and Pharmaceutical Industry

• The cosmetic and pharmaceutical industry uses guar gum as a thickener, as a binding and granulating agent and as an emulsifier. Creams and lotions contain this ingredient for suspension of components that otherwise would settle. It is a natural gelling agent in cosmetics. The pharmaceutical industry uses guar gum as both a binder and to disintegrate compressed tablets and pellets.

Human Health

• Guar gum contains health benefits. It can be supplemented in the diet as a powder, and it is used as a water-soluble fiber and laxative. The gum's high fiber content helps manage cholesterol levels. Its water-soluble nature slows absorption of sugars by the small intestines, which can help diabetics control their insulin levels.