Ceratonia

carob bean gum; carob flour; ceratonia gum; Ceratonia siliqua gum; locust bean gum; E410

Galactomannan polysaccharide from the seed endosperm of Ceratonia siliqua (mannose to galactose ratio about 4:1) · [9000-40-2]

Polymer, mixture or material of variable composition — no single molecular formula applies.

Gelling agent, viscosity modifier

Typical concentrations: — · Dosage forms: Liquid

Ceratonia is a thickening, suspending and stabilising agent used mainly in foods and, to a lesser extent, in oral and topical pharmaceutical products; it has also been studied as a hydrophilic matrix former for controlled-release tablets, often combined with xanthan gum. In foods it is typically used at about 0.1–1%. It is an ingredient of thickened infant formulas used for regurgitation.

A white to yellowish-white, almost odourless powder obtained by milling the endosperm of carob seeds.

Composition

linear (1→4)-β-D-mannan chain with single α-D-galactose side units; mannose to galactose ratio about 4:1

Solubility and hydration

only partly soluble in cold water; heating to about 80 °C is needed for full hydration and maximum viscosity; insoluble in ethanol

Viscosity

forms highly viscous, pseudoplastic dispersions at low concentrations (around 1%); viscosity is relatively unaffected by pH over a wide range

Synergy

forms elastic gels with xanthan gum and strengthens carrageenan and agar gels

The powder is stable when stored dry in a well-closed container in a cool place. Aqueous dispersions are susceptible to microbial spoilage and need a preservative; prolonged heating, extremes of pH and enzymes (mannanases) reduce their viscosity.

Incompatible with strong oxidising agents. It is precipitated from dispersion by high concentrations of ethanol and other water-miscible organic solvents.

Obtained from the seeds of the carob tree, Ceratonia siliqua (Fabaceae), which grows around the Mediterranean. The seeds are dehulled and split, the germ is separated from the endosperm, and the endosperm is milled and sieved to give the gum.

Regarded as non-toxic and is not digested or absorbed to a significant extent; it acts as soluble dietary fibre. Large amounts may cause flatulence and bloating. Occupational exposure to the dust has caused allergic rhinitis and asthma, and food allergy to carob gum has been reported rarely.

Observe normal precautions for the quantity handled. Avoid inhaling the dust; a dust mask, gloves and eye protection are recommended.

GRAS listed. Accepted as a food additive in Europe (E410); EFSA and JECFA have not considered it necessary to set a numerical ADI. Used in oral and topical medicines and in many foods.

Guar gum; tara gum; xanthan gum; carrageenan.

Because it has fewer galactose side chains than guar gum, ceratonia hydrates less readily in cold water but interacts more strongly with xanthan and carrageenan. Disperse the powder in cold water with good agitation, then heat to develop full viscosity.