Kelzan AR vs Xanthan Gum: A Comprehensive Comparison
When it comes to food additives, Kelzan AR and Xanthan gum are two popular choices known for their thickening and stabilizing properties. Both are polysaccharides derived from natural sources, but they have distinct characteristics and applications. In this article, we will delve into the details of Kelzan AR and Xanthan gum, comparing their properties, uses, and benefits.
Properties of Kelzan AR
Kelzan AR is a type of alginate derived from seaweed. It is a water-soluble polysaccharide that forms a gel when mixed with calcium ions. Here are some key properties of Kelzan AR:
- Thickening agent: Kelzan AR is an excellent thickening agent, providing a smooth and creamy texture to products.
- Stabilizing agent: It helps to stabilize emulsions and suspensions, preventing separation of ingredients.
- Non-toxic: Being derived from natural sources, Kelzan AR is considered safe for consumption.
- High temperature stability: It maintains its properties even at high temperatures, making it suitable for various processing methods.
Properties of Xanthan Gum
Xanthan gum is a polysaccharide produced by the fermentation of glucose by the bacterium Xanthomonas campestris. Here are some key properties of Xanthan gum:
- Thickening agent: Xanthan gum is an excellent thickening agent, providing a smooth and creamy texture to products.
- Stabilizing agent: It helps to stabilize emulsions and suspensions, preventing separation of ingredients.
- Non-toxic: Being a natural product, Xanthan gum is considered safe for consumption.
- High temperature stability: It maintains its properties even at high temperatures, making it suitable for various processing methods.
Comparison of Properties
Now that we have discussed the properties of both Kelzan AR and Xanthan gum, let’s compare them in a table:
| Property | Kelzan AR | Xanthan Gum |
|---|---|---|
| Thickening agent | Excellent | Excellent |
| Stabilizing agent | Excellent | Excellent |
| Non-toxic | Yes | Yes |
| High temperature stability | Yes | Yes |
Applications of Kelzan AR
Kelzan AR is used in various industries, including:
- Food industry: It is used as a thickening agent in sauces, dressings, and desserts.
- Beverage industry: Kelzan AR is used to stabilize emulsions in milkshakes and smoothies.
- Pharmaceutical industry: It is used as a suspending agent in oral suspensions and as a tablet binder.
- Personal care industry: Kelzan AR is used in toothpaste, hair care products, and skin care products for its thickening and stabilizing properties.
Applications of Xanthan Gum
Xanthan gum is also used in various industries, including:
- Food industry: It is used as a thickening agent in sauces, dressings, and desserts.
- Beverage industry: Xanthan gum is used to stabilize emulsions in milkshakes and smoothies.
- Pharmaceutical industry: It is used as a suspending agent in oral suspensions and as a tablet binder.
- Personal care industry: Xanthan gum
