Xanthan gum is a polysaccharide secreted by the bacterium Xanthomonas campestris. Xanthan gum is a sugar derived typically from corn (can also be from soy or wheat) that has been pooped out by a bacteria that produces rot on various vegetables. Yup, you heard me correctly friends. so, what say? do you want to eat this now? It is a common ingredient used in everyday items like toothpaste, medicines, supplements, protein powders(Healthy?) various condiments like Salad dressing, ALL ICECREAMS, cosmetics. I would say if it is packaged, it contains xanthan gum. Why you might ask? It is a great thickener–it has the properties perfect for creating a food that binds well and is stabilized. if you are gluten intolerant and are on a gluten-free diet you must avoid this! Its a sugar and if you are diabetic you are messing up. Here is how it is made. It is produced through the mingling of sugar derived from corn and a bacteria that creates black spots on many vegetables like broccoli. The fermentation process of the two ingredients (the sugar and bacteria) creates this slimy substance which is then dried up and made into a powder form that you see on store shelves. it causes gastric upset Diarrhea/ Loose motion Irritable bowel All that Gluten corn-soy allergy can cause Can contribute to leaky gut All chronic lifestyle diseases Guar gum is a better solution if you must use a thickener. Dr. Kalpana Shekhawat M.D. Functional & Metabolic Medicine Specialist Founder, Freedom Age http://www.freedomage.in/xanthum-gum-food-additive-how-bad-is-it/