What Is Tara Gum?
Tara gum (E417) is a 100% natural hydrocolloid extracted from the endosperm of Caesalpinia spinosa seeds — the tara tree native to Peru's Andes. Peru produces about 80% of the world's supply.
Chemical Structure
Tara gum is a galactomannan polysaccharide with a mannose-to-galactose ratio of approximately 3:1, placing it between guar gum (2:1) and locust bean gum (4:1). This intermediate ratio bridges the gap between cold-soluble guar and heat-dependent LBG.
Key Properties
Tara gum appears as a white to yellowish-white, odorless, tasteless powder. A 1% solution produces viscosity of approximately 5,500 cps — nearly three times higher than LBG. It maintains stable viscosity across pH 3–11 and exhibits non-Newtonian pseudoplastic behavior.
Production
Production is 100% mechanical — no chemical solvents. Seeds are separated from pods, roasted to remove seed coats, endosperm is separated from germ, and ground into fine powder. Pods are used for tannin extraction — zero waste.
Regulatory Status
EFSA concluded in 2017 that no ADI is needed and there is no safety concern. JECFA set ADI as 'not specified' since 1986. Approved in Canada, Australia, New Zealand, and Japan. Naturally gluten-free, vegan, halal, kosher, and GMO-free.