Short facts : Made from sugar and bacteria and therefore meets the requirements of vegan food

Xanthan gum is a food additive that is commonly used as a thickening or stabilising agent in a wide variety of food products. It is derived from the fermentation of glucose by the bacterium Xanthomonas campestris. Xanthan gum is known for its ability to create a viscous and gel-like texture when added to liquids and is used in a wide range of products including dressings, sauces, frozen foods and gluten-free breads and other baked goods. Since xanthan gum is gluten-free and vegan, it is a well known thickener for home bakers with food allergies, however if you want to use a substitute for the thickening capability then cornstarch is a good option.