Is Guar Gum Banned? EU vs US Status, Risks & Where It Hides
TL;DR: Guar Gum is allowed in the EU but allowed in the US (food additives).
Also called guaran. (E412) CAS 9000-30-0.
Other names: E412, INS 412, guaran, guar flour
Is Guar Gum banned in the EU?
| EU status | Allowed |
|---|---|
| US status | Allowed |
| Risk level | low |
| Where it shows up | Haagen-Dazs Ice Cream, Yoplait Yogurt, Annie's Gluten-Free Pasta, Bob's Red Mill Products, Progresso Soup |
| CAS number | 9000-30-0 |
What is Guar Gum?
Guar gum is a galactomannan polysaccharide extracted from guar beans (Cyamopsis tetragonoloba), grown primarily in India and Pakistan. It is a highly effective thickener — approximately 8 times more powerful than cornstarch — and functions as a dietary fiber. It is used extensively in food, pharmaceutical, and industrial applications.
Why is Guar Gum used in food?
Acts as a thickener and stabilizer in dairy products, baked goods, and gluten-free foods; also used to reduce syneresis (water separation) in sauces.
Is Guar Gum dangerous? Documented risks
Generally recognized as safe. At high doses (e.g., dietary supplement doses of 10–20 g/day), guar gum can cause flatulence, bloating, and diarrhea. Historically, concentrated guar gum dietary supplements were associated with esophageal obstruction, prompting the FDA to ban such supplements in 1992. At typical food additive use levels, no significant safety concerns have been identified. EFSA confirmed its safety as a food additive in 2017.
Common US products containing Guar Gum
- Marshmallow Cotton CandyPeeps
- SPARKLING ORANGECELSIUS
- DOUBLESHOT ENERGY ENERGY COFFEE BEVERAGESTARBUCKS
- Tropical Vibe Sparkling Starfruit Pineapple EditionCELSIUS
- PEACH VIBE SPARKLING WHITE PEACH EDITIONCELSIUS
- Celsius Fizz-Free Peach Mango Green TeaCelsius
- ARCTIC Vibe SPARKLING FROZEN ENERGY EDITIONCELSIUS
- Sparkling WatermelonCELSIUS
How to avoid Guar Gum: safer alternatives
Xanthan gum, locust bean gum, or psyllium husk can substitute for guar gum in most food applications.
Frequently asked questions about Guar Gum
Is guar gum safe to eat?
Yes, at food additive levels. High-dose supplements are associated with obstruction and were banned by the FDA.
Is guar gum gluten-free?
Yes, guar gum is naturally gluten-free and suitable for celiac disease.
Is guar gum banned in the EU?
No. It is authorized as E412 throughout the EU.
Does guar gum cause bloating?
In typical food amounts, most people tolerate it well. Large supplement doses are more likely to cause digestive discomfort.
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Sources
Our scores are never influenced by brands. Last updated 6/11/2026.