Is Locust Bean Gum Banned? EU vs US Status, Risks & Where It Hides
TL;DR: Locust Bean Gum is allowed in the EU but allowed in the US (food additives).
Also called carob bean gum. (E410) CAS 9000-40-2.
Other names: carob bean gum, E410, INS 410, LBG
Is Locust Bean Gum banned in the EU?
| EU status | Allowed |
|---|---|
| US status | Allowed |
| Risk level | low |
| Where it shows up | Breyers Ice Cream, Kraft Philadelphia Cream Cheese, Stoneyfield Yogurt, Similac Infant Formula, Blue Buffalo Pet Food |
| CAS number | 9000-40-2 |
What is Locust Bean Gum?
Locust bean gum (LBG) is a galactomannan polysaccharide extracted from the seeds of the carob tree (Ceratonia siliqua), native to the Mediterranean. It is a fine white to yellow powder that forms a thick gel when dissolved in hot water. It synergizes strongly with xanthan gum and carrageenan to enhance gel strength.
Why is Locust Bean Gum used in food?
Used as a thickener and gelling agent in dairy, ice cream, and pet food to improve texture and prevent ice crystal growth.
Is Locust Bean Gum dangerous? Documented risks
Generally recognized as safe. EFSA's Panel on Food Additives confirmed the safety of LBG in 2017, noting no concerns at current dietary exposures. It functions as a soluble dietary fiber and can have mild prebiotic effects. No significant adverse effects have been documented in human or animal studies at food-relevant doses.
Common US products containing Locust Bean Gum
- Fig Bar BlueberryNature's Bakery
- Fresca Sparkling Soda Water Grapefruit CitrusFresca
- Thin Crust Pizza Meatless SupremeDaiya
- Fire-Roasted Vegetable Gluten-Free Thin Crust PizzaDaiya
- Thin Crust Pizza Meatless PepperoniDaiya
- Greek Yogurt VanillaChobani
- Greek Yogurt Vanilla FlavoredChobani Zero Sugar
- Mixed Berry Vanilla Protein ShakeChobani
How to avoid Locust Bean Gum: safer alternatives
Guar gum or xanthan gum can replace LBG in most applications. Tara gum (E417) is a closely related alternative.
Frequently asked questions about Locust Bean Gum
Is locust bean gum safe?
Yes, it is approved by both FDA and EFSA and considered safe at typical food additive levels.
Is locust bean gum vegan?
Yes, it is derived from carob seeds, a plant source.
What is the difference between locust bean gum and carob?
Locust bean gum is extracted specifically from the seed endosperm of the carob pod; carob powder is made from the dried pod and has a different flavor and composition.
Is locust bean gum the same as guar gum?
Both are galactomannans but from different plants. LBG has a higher mannose-to-galactose ratio and different gelling properties.
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Sources
- Re-evaluation of locust bean gum (E 410) as a food additive — EFSA
- FDA 21 CFR 184.1343 — Locust bean gum — FDA
Our scores are never influenced by brands. Last updated 6/11/2026.