Gum Arabic Pieces

Gum arabic is a natural gum , which is extracted from the resin of different Acacia trees, mainly Acacia senegal and Acacia seyal. Thanks to its thickening, emulsifying and stabilizing properties, it has applications in the food, pharmaceutical and cosmetic industries.

Gum arabic grain comes in the form of small irregular fragments or granules ranging from 0.5 to 3 mm in diameter. It has a hard, brittle, resin-like texture and is yellowish in color.

It is water soluble and forms a viscous and transparent solution when dissolved. It has the ability to form stable gels and emulsions.

Uses and applications of gum arabic grains

This naturally occurring gum has a wide range of uses and applications in the manufacture of various products

• Food: as thickener, stabilizer and emulsifier.
• Pharmaceuticals: as a binding agent, suspending agent and coating in the production of tablets.
• Cosmetics: as a thickener, stabilizer and emulsifying agent in creams, lotions, make-up and hair care products.
• Printing: to improve ink adhesion.
• Textiles: to fix dyes in fabrics.
• Chemical products: in the manufacture of adhesives, paints, coatings and others, due to its thickening and stabilizing properties.

Gum arabic grain or gum arabic powder?

Both gum arabic grain and gum arabic powder have similar applications: they are used as additives, thickeners, stabilizers and emulsifiers.

The choice between one or the other form of presentation of gum arabic will depend on the specific use. Here are some factors to take into account when choosing:

• Solubility. When a gradual dissolution is needed in the mixing process, gum arabic grain may be more suitable. The granules will dissolve slowly as they are shaken or exposed to the liquid.
• Specific applications. The preparation of inks, adhesives or coatings may require the use of the grain version to achieve the proper texture or adhesion.
• Storage. Gum arabic grain can have a long shelf life, even when storage conditions are not strictly applied. This may tip the balance in deciding which version of the product to use.