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E417Fine

Tara gum

Group: Thickeners

Harm level1 of 5No concern

In plain words

Tara gum is a plant fibre from the seeds of the South American tara shrub. It thickens and stabilises ice cream, dairy desserts, sauces and jams.

Where you find it: ice cream, desserts, sauces

Our recommendation

No need to avoid it.

Possible risks and effects

  • No relevant risk known at normal intake

For experts

A galactomannan from the seed endosperm of Caesalpinia spinosa, structurally between guar and locust bean gum; thickener and stabiliser. EFSA's 2017 re-evaluation concluded that a numerical ADI is not needed. As a non-digestible fibre it is fermented in the colon.

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This information is educational and based on EFSA assessments and available studies; it does not replace medical advice. With allergies, intolerances or illness, follow your doctor’s advice.