Gum arabic is a hard transparent resin, consisting of the dried juice of various types of acacia. Resin is harvested commercially from wild trees mainly in Sudan (80% ) and throughout Africa from Senegal to Somalia.
Gum arabic was previously widely used in many industries as an adhesive, with the development of polymer production, it is increasingly losing its importance. Included in some soft drinks as an emulsifier, such as Diet Coca - Cola.
In cooking, gum arabic can increase the stability of emulsions, reduce the formation of lumps and foam, prevent sugaring, without greatly changing the taste of the product. These properties are useful in the confectionery and bakery industry (cookies, marshmallows, fillings for sweets, glazes, etc. ), in the dairy industry (yogurts, creams, cream, ice cream, etc. ), in the production of beverages (including carbonated and alcoholic, popular gum syrup based on it, etc. Regulates the freezing point, retains moisture.
Registered as food additive E414.
