Gellan gum

Gellan gum (CAS 71010-52-1), also identified by E418, is a microbial polysaccharide produced by fermentation and used commercially as a gelling, thickening, and stabilizing agent.

Where is Gellan gum used?

• Food production: suspends particulates in beverages, stabilizes dairy alternatives, and provides gel structure in low-sugar confectionery and desserts
• Pharmaceutical: controlled-release matrix in oral solid dosage forms and gelling agent in ophthalmic drops with ion-triggered gelation
• Personal care: builds viscosity and suspends active ingredients in clear gels, lotions, and serums without clouding
• Microbiology and plant tissue culture: Gelrite serves as a transparent agar substitute in growth media, enabling better visualization of colonies.

Good to know: Low-acyl gellan produces firm, brittle gels, while high-acyl gellan is a distinct commercial form. Gelrite is a purified grade for specialized microbiological and pharmaceutical applications.

Commercial specifications

• Forms firm, clear gels at low concentrations