Xanthan Gum

Xanthan gum is of bacterial origin and it is widely used as an emulsifier. It emulsifies cold and hot liquids under shearing, and between .2% and 1% by weight can be used for certain emulsions. It is also used as a thickener. Xanthan gum will thicken most liquids significantly, increasing their surface tension but not their texture in a very significant way when used in small quantities. In larger quantities, it can have an off-putting mucilaginous texture and appearance, which is not appetizing to see or taste in a dish.