TARA GUM
Prepared at the 30th JECFA (1986), published in FNP 37 (1986) and in FNP 52 (1992). Metals and arsenic specifications revised at the 57th JECFA (2001). An ADI 'not specified' was established at the 30th JECFA (1986)
SYNONYMS Peruvian carob; INS No. 417
DEFINITION Obtained by grinding the endosperm of the seeds of Caesalpinia spinosa(Fam. Leguminosae); consists chiefly of polysaccharides of high molecular weight composed mainly of galactomannans. The principal component consists of a linear chain of (1,4)-beta-D-mannopyranose units with alphaD-galacto- pyranose units attached by (1 6) linkages; the ratio of mannose to galactose in tara gum is 3:1. (In carob bean gum this ratio is 4:1 and in guar gum 2:1.) The article of commerce may be further specified as to viscosity and loss on drying.
DESCRIPTION White to white-yellow, nearly odourless powder
FUNCTIONAL USES Thickening agent, stabilizer
