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Xanthan Gum

The smooth thickener.

What it does

Gives products a smooth, gel-like texture and stops the ingredients from separating.

Good to know

Made by fermenting sugars. The same thickener is used in many foods.

Often found in: Sunscreens, Toothpastes, Hand creams

Around the world

• United States: No FDA limit. The FDA doesn't approve cosmetic ingredients before sale. Source
• EU and UK: No special limit in the EU or UK. Source
• Canada: Not on Health Canada's Hotlist of restricted ingredients. Source
• Australia: No limit in Australia's Poisons Standard. Source

Sources

• EFSA: Re-evaluation of xanthan gum (E 415) as a food additive (2017) (Independent)
• CIR: Safety Assessment of Microbial Polysaccharide Gums (2016) (Industry-funded)