xanthan gum

noun

xan·​than gum ˈzan-thən- 

: a polysaccharide that is produced by fermentation of carbohydrates by a gram-negative bacterium (Xanthomonas campestris) and is a thickening and suspending agent used especially in pharmaceuticals and prepared foods

called also xanthan

Examples of xanthan gum in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Notably, Häagen-Dazs doesn’t include any of the stabilizers or gums, like soy lecithin or xanthan gum, that other brands use as preservatives or thickeners. —Sam Stone, Bon Appétit, 3 July 2024

Doing so builds better structure and, if your mixture contains xanthan gum, ensures the ultrafine powder is dispersed evenly. —Shilpa Uskokovic, Bon Appétit, 15 Mar. 2024

The Huy Fong was noticeably thicker, perhaps courtesy of a bit more xanthan gum, a stabilizing ingredient listed on both bottles? —Emily Heil, Washington Post, 16 Feb. 2024

Using it for vegan meringue, for example, requires a powerful mixer and a stabilizing agent like cream of tartar or xanthan gum. —Charlotte Druckman, Washington Post, 8 Feb. 2024

Word History

Etymology

xanth- (in New Latin Xanthomonas, bacterial genus name, from xantho- xantho- + -monas, combining form used in the generic names of microorganisms, borrowed from Greek monad-, monás "single item, unit") + -an entry 3 — more at monad

Note: The suffix in an earlier variant xantham, if not a misspelling, is unexplained.

First Known Use

1964, in the meaning defined above

Medical Definition

xanthan gum

noun

xan·​than gum ˈzan-thən- 

: a polysaccharide that is produced by fermentation of carbohydrates by a bacterium (Xanthomonas campestris) and is a thickening and suspending agent used especially in pharmaceuticals and prepared foods

called also xanthan