Tara Gum E417
natural β Primarily plant-derived.
Caesalpinia spinosa gum
CAS: 39300-88-4
Factual Regulatory Reference
This database provides factual regulatory information compiled from official government sources. It does not constitute medical, nutritional, or safety advice. Regulatory status varies by country and is subject to change. Always refer to your local regulatory authority for the most current information.
? Did You Know?
Tara Gum occurs naturally in Tara tree seeds (Caesalpinia spinosa) and Native to Peru and Bolivia. Many people consume it daily without realizing it's also a listed food additive.
Beyond food, Tara Gum is also used in cosmetics, medicine, industrial applications. Its versatility makes it one of the most multi-purpose chemical compounds in everyday life.
In the EU, Tara Gum has a "quantum satis" authorization β Latin for "as much as needed." This means there's no specific maximum limit; manufacturers use only what's technologically necessary.
Detailed Regulatory Assessment
European Union (EFSA)
Widely permitted in most food categories
United States (FDA)
Regulated as a direct food additive under FDA CFR titles.
Japan (MHLW)
Compliant with Japanese food sanitation law.
Acceptable Daily Intake (ADI)
International Standard (JECFA)
mg/kg body weight per day
European Standard (EFSA)
Natural Occurrence
A natural galactomannan polysaccharide extracted from the seeds of the tara tree. Similar in structure to locust bean gum but with stronger gelling properties. Peru is the world's primary producer.
Manufacturing
Seeds are removed from tara pods, dehusked, and the endosperm is separated, milled into powder, and purified. The process is similar to locust bean gum production.
Applications Beyond Food
Used in cosmetic formulations as a thickener and stabilizer.
Used in pharmaceutical formulations as a binder.
Used in textile printing and paper manufacturing.