Is Gum Arabic a Sugar?

Because gum arabic is found on the ingredient lists of many sweet drinks and foods, people often assume it is a sugar. While it is not, in fact, a sugar, it does play an important role in the processing of sugary drinks and foods. Does this Spark an idea?

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Definition
- Gum arabic is hardened sap that comes from the Acacia senegal tree. This tree is found from Senegal to India and Pakistan.
Effect on Sugars
- The addition of gum arabic to sweetened liquids keeps sugar crystals from forming at the bottom. It is also used to thicken soft drinks and other beverages.
Color Binding
- Gum arabic is used as a color binder to enhance the appearance of foods and drinks. Its color binding properties also make it useful for manufacturing crayons and printing inks.
Adhesives
- Moisture sensitive adhesives, such as those used on postage stamps, are bound using gum arabic.
Health Properties
- Gum arabic is added to cough drops to sooth mucous membranes. Its astringent properties make it useful for treating hemorrhages and wounds.

Saudi Aramco World: Gum Arabic

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