Ingredients Solutions Inc Locust (Carob) Bean Gum

Locust Bean Gum (LBG) is a Natural food additive derived from the carob tree (Ceratonia siliqua), prevalent in the Mediterranean region. The elongated pods of carob tree are coarsely ground, then separated as two fractions, pulp and seed. Locust bean gum, or LBG, is derived from the endosperm of the seed fraction. Product grades are determned by water viscosity, powder color/purity and particle size.

Ingredient Name: Carob Bean Gum

Functions: Gelling Agent, Stabilizer, Thickener, Viscosity Modifier

    Knowde Enhanced TDS

    Identification & Functionality

    Ingredient Name
    Ingredients
    Carob Bean Gum
    Food Additive Number
    E 410, INS 410
    Technologies

    Features & Benefits

    Product Highlights

    Locust Bean Gum by itself is an effective thickener and water binder that requires heat for complete solution.

    LBG come in various viscosity ranges and clarity ranges. The differences in clarity are primarily due to color and the presence of “black specks” in the powder which are present from teh seed hulls in LBG processing.

    The solutions and gels are cloudy due to the presence of cellulose in standard LBG. “Clear” or transparent LBG can be made by removing the cellulose component.

    Chemistry and Structure : The chemical structure of locust bean gum consists of linked sugar units—specifically two hexose sugars (sugars containing six carbon atoms), mannose and galactose, in a ratio of about 4 to 1. LBG may be chemically described as galactomannan, similar to Tara and Guar gums.

    Applications & Uses

    Recommended Uses & Known Applications
    • Ice Cream: LBG functions as a water binder to control ice crystal formation while maintaining a smooth creamy texture. Normally used in combination with emulsifiers and other gums such as Carrageenan.
    • Cream Cheese: LBG provides body, smooth texture and prevents syneresis. May be used in combination with Xanthan Gum and/or Guar Gum.
    • Water Gel Desserts: LBG can be used with Carrageenan to produce vegetable-based, gelatin-like desserts that do not require refrigeration. Can be used in either powder mixes or shelf-stable Ready to Eat products.
    • Cheese Spreads: LBG provides a creamy texture and controls syneresis while improving freeze-thaw stability.

    Regulatory & Compliance

    Certifications & Compliance
    Regulatory information

    21 CFR – 184.1343. Locust Bean Gum is approved for general use in food products.

    Packaging & Availability

    Packaging Information
    • Fifty (50) lb., 3-ply poly-lined paper bags.
    • Bulk Density: 55+/-5lb./ft3.

    Storage & Handling

    Storage and Shelf Life
    • Store properly sealed in a cool, dry environment.
    • Re-certify specifications after 2 years.