Locust bean gum (LBG)
Locust bean gum (also known as carob gum, additive E410) is a natural polysaccharide (a galactomannan) used as a thickener and stabilizer. It is valued in industry because it delivers a creamy texture, binds water, reduces liquid separation, and improves product stability during storage and through freezing and thawing cycles.
Sources
- Carob (Ceratonia siliqua) – a Mediterranean legume tree
- The gum is produced from carob seeds through mechanical processing (endosperm separation) and milling
- Further refined grades are also available, depending on the required standard and end use
Variations
- Standard (food grade) – suitable for most food applications
- Different particle sizes (mesh) – affect dispersibility and hydration speed
- Viscosity / performance grades – designed for specific textures and processing conditions
- Low-micro / high purity – for sensitive products and stricter specifications
- Organic – when an organic / clean label claim is required
- Blends/systems (e.g., with xanthan or carrageenan) – for maximum stability and targeted texture
Applications by industry
Ice cream industry – ice crystal control, creaminess, improved scoopability
Dairy industry (puddings, creams, yoghurt desserts) – stable texture, reduced whey separation
Savoury industry – improved viscosity and stability during storage and reheating
Bakery industry (especially gluten-free) – improved structure, moisture retention and freshness
Confectionery industry (fillings and inclusions) – better stability, less leakage, improved spreadability
Benefits in the final product
- Creamy, “full” texture without affecting flavour
- Better storage stability (less phase separation / syneresis)
- Improved freeze–thaw stability (especially in ice cream and frozen desserts)
- Water binding and viscosity control for consistent batch-to-batch performance
- Synergy with other hydrocolloids (often stronger in combination than alone)
- Clean-label potential (plant-based; well accepted in “more natural” formulations)
- Recipe optimization: can support fat/sugar reduction while maintaining mouthfeel (product-dependent)
Get a Quote
Fast ResponseWhy Choose Our Platform?
Unlock direct access to a global network of reliable suppliers. Through our platform you can source ingredients, polymers and specialty products from trusted producers with full transparency. Every product comes with clear documentation, and every supplier is checked for quality, compliance and consistency so you can focus on production, not on risk.