Xanthan Gum

Product Name: Xanthan Gum
INCI Name: Xanthan Gum
CAS Number: 11138-66-2
Chemical Type: High–molecular-weight polysaccharide
Empirical Formula (repeating unit): (C₃₅H₄₉O₂₉)ₙ
Molecular Weight: Very high (polymeric; exact value varies)

Description

Xanthan gum is a naturally derived polysaccharide produced by the controlled fermentation of carbohydrates using the bacterium Xanthomonas campestris. It is supplied as a cream to off-white free-flowing powder and is widely used as a thickening, stabilizing, suspending, and rheology-modifying agent in cosmetic, personal care, food, and pharmaceutical products.

When dispersed in water, xanthan gum hydrates rapidly to form smooth, stable, high-viscosity solutions even at low concentrations. It exhibits pseudoplastic (shear-thinning) behavior, allowing products to pour and spread easily while remaining thick and stable at rest.

Physical & Chemical Properties

• Appearance: Off-white to pale yellow powder

• Odor: Odorless

• Solubility: Soluble in cold and hot water; insoluble in oils

• pH Stability: Effective over a wide pH range (≈ 2–12)

• Thermal Stability: Stable under heating and cooling cycles

• Salt Tolerance: Good compatibility with electrolytes

Functional Benefits

• Provides excellent viscosity and texture control

• Prevents phase separation and sedimentation

• Enhances product stability and shelf life

• Improves spreadability and sensory feel

• Works synergistically with other gums and thickeners

Typical Usage Levels

• Cosmetics & Personal Care: 0.1 – 1.0%

• Food Applications: As permitted by regulations

Applications

• Creams, lotions, gels, and serums

• Shampoos and cleansers

• Toothpaste and oral care products

• Food sauces, dressings, and beverages

• Pharmaceutical suspensions

Storage & Handling

• Store in a cool, dry place

• Keep container tightly closed

• Protect from moisture