Karaya
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Product Ref: 405
Karaya Gum - Gum Karaya - Sterculia - Sterculia Urens Gum
European Union Approved Food Additive: E416 - Natural Gum - Emulsifier (thickener/stabiliser)
Direct Food Substance Generally Regarded As Safe (GRAS): 21 CFR 184.1349
Suitable for Vegetarians and Vegans, Halal and Kosher
CAS Number: 9000-36-6
EINECS Number: 232-539-4
Source
Karaya is a vegetable gum produced as an exudate from the Gum Karaya tree, Sterculia urens, which is native to India and surrounding countries. The gum is harvested by making incisions in the wood (tapping) and collecting the exudate, which forms lumps once it dries on contact with the air and sunlight.
Properties
Karaya is sold in the form of lumps or a powder and is available in technical and food grades. It is an acid polysaccharide that swells when it absorbs water, forming a gel (hydrocolloid). It is sometimes used as substitute for Tragacanth.
Uses
Food Industry
Karaya is used as a food additive, acting as an emulsifier and thickener in sauces, ice cream and beverages. It is also used in baking as a binder and stabiliser.
Confectionery Industry
Karaya is used as an ingredient in candies and chewing gum.
Pharmaceutical Industry
Karaya is used as a thickener in medications and a bulk-forming laxative to relieve constipation. It is also reputed to be an aphrodisiac, although there is little evidence to support this.
Printing & Packaging Industry
In the Paper industry, Karaya is used as a binding agent in paper manufacturing.
Other Industries
In the Dental industry, Karaya is used as a denture adhesive.
In the Personal Care industry, Karaya is used as a thickening agent, as well as an adhesive agent in hairsprays.
