Xanthan gum is used for diabetes, constipation, dry eye, and many other conditions, but there is no good scientific evidence to support most of these uses. In manufacturing, xanthan gum is used as a thickening and stabilizing agent in foods, toothpastes, and medicines.
When taken by mouth: Xanthan gum is LIKELY SAFE in the amounts found in foods. It is also LIKELY SAFE when taken as a medicine in doses up to 15 grams per day. It can cause some side effects such as intestinal gas and bloating.
When applied to the skin: Xanthan gum is LIKELY SAFE when used appropriately.
Xanthan gum serves two primary purposes: As a thickening agent: It is added to toothpaste and some other products to keep them uniformly thick.
It is also used in industry, for example, helping to thicken drilling oil. As an emulsifier: Its ability to bind moisture means it can prevent products from separating.
Xanthan gum is used in salad dressings, sauces, beverages, dairy products, syrups, toppings, baked goods, confectioneries and candies, breadings, batter, and low fat spreads.
