gummiarabikiin

Gummiarabikiin is a natural gum derived from the sap of acacia trees, primarily from species of the Acacia Senegal and Acacia Seyal trees found in the Sahel region of Africa. It is a complex mixture of polysaccharides and glycoproteins, predominantly arabinogalactans and proteins. The sap is harvested from the trees, dried, and then processed into a powder or granules. Gum arabic is soluble in water, forming a viscous solution.

Its primary applications are in the food industry, where it functions as an emulsifier, stabilizer, and thickener. It is commonly found in confectionery, beverages, baked goods, and dairy products. In pharmaceuticals, it serves as a binder in tablet formulations and a coating agent. The printing and paint industries also utilize gum arabic for its adhesive properties. Historically, it was also used in inks and as a medium for watercolors. Gum arabic is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by regulatory bodies and is a biodegradable substance. The harvesting of gum arabic plays a significant role in the economy of several African countries, providing income for many rural communities.