Shihan Overseas Private Limited

Gum Arabic

Gum Arabic

Gum Arabic, also known as acacia gum, is a natural gum derived from the sap of the Acacia tree, primarily found in regions of Africa and the Middle East. It has been used for centuries in various applications, including food, pharmaceuticals, and cosmetics. Known for its emulsifying and thickening properties, Gum Arabic is commonly used as a stabilizer in beverages, candies, and baked goods. It is also valued for its dietary fiber content and potential health benefits, such as aiding digestion and supporting gut health. Additionally, Gum Arabic is a versatile ingredient in arts and crafts, particularly in watercolor paints.

Benefit of Gum Arabic:

Sudan

Sudan is the world’s leading producer of gum arabic, supplying over 70% of the global market. The country is particularly known for producing two high-quality types of gum arabic: Talha and Hashab.

Talha (Acacia Seyal)

Characteristics: Talha gum is less viscous compared to Hashab and is generally used in industrial applications. It has lower emulsifying and film-forming properties, making it suitable for non-food industries.
Uses: It is widely used in the production of adhesives, paints, inks, and textiles due to its ability to stabilize emulsions and enhance viscosity. In the food industry, it’s sometimes used as a cheaper alternative to Hashab for products where high emulsification isn’t crucial.

Hashab (Acacia Senegal)

Characteristics: Hashab gum is considered the highest quality of gum arabic due to its superior emulsifying, stabilizing, and film-forming properties. It dissolves easily in water, forming a smooth, viscous solution.
Uses: It is extensively used in the food and beverage industry, especially in soft drinks, confectionery, and as a stabilizer in dairy products. In pharmaceuticals, it is used as a binder in tablets, and in cosmetics, it serves as an emulsifier in lotions and creams.

Mali

Mali’s gum arabic production contributes significantly to both local and international markets, with varieties that cater to various industrial and food applications.

Talha (Acacia Seyal)

Characteristics: Similar to Sudan’s Talha, this gum has a lower viscosity and is primarily used in non-food industries. It has moderate emulsifying properties and is a good stabilizer in industrial products.
Uses: It is frequently used to manufacture inks, paints, and adhesives. Its ability to form a film makes it useful in coating applications, such as in textiles and paper.

Karaya

Characteristics: Karaya gum is a natural gum obtained from trees of the genus Sterculia. It is often used in similar applications due to its high viscosity and bulk- forming properties.
Uses: Karaya is mainly used in pharmaceuticals as a bulk laxative, in dental adhesives, and as a thickening agent in the food industry. It also finds use in the production of glues and pastes due to its adhesive properties.

Sakoto

Characteristics: This variety, found in Mali, is known for its balanced properties, offering good emulsification and stabilising qualities. It is versatile, and used in both food and non-food industries.
Uses: In food products, Sakoto gum is used as a stabilizer in beverages, sauces, and dressings. It is also used in the production of industrial products such as paints and adhesives due to its reliable emulsifying capabilities.

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