Corn Syrup Solids vs Locust Bean Gum: which is worse?
Quick answer: Locust Bean Gum carries the heavier risk profile. Corn Syrup Solids is allowed in the EU and allowed in the US; Locust Bean Gum is allowed in the EU and allowed in the US.
| Property | Corn Syrup Solids | Locust Bean Gum |
|---|---|---|
| EU status | Allowed | Allowed |
| US status | Allowed | Allowed |
| Risk level | medium | low |
| Banned in | — | — |
| Restricted in | — | — |
| Category | additive | additive |
| Where it hides | Coffee-Mate Creamer, Similac Infant Formula, Enfamil | Breyers Ice Cream, Kraft Philadelphia Cream Cheese, Stoneyfield Yogurt |
What is Corn Syrup Solids?
Corn syrup solids are produced by drying corn syrup to a moisture content below 10%, yielding a free-flowing powder. They are composed of a mixture of glucose polymers (polysaccharides) and monosaccharides derived from corn starch hydrolysis. Unlike liquid corn syrup, they are used in powdered products such as non-dairy creamers, infant formula, and seasoning blends.
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.
Documented risks
Corn Syrup Solids: Corn syrup solids contribute to added sugar intake and share the metabolic risks of high-sugar diets, including increased risk of obesity, type 2 diabetes, and dental caries. Their presence in infant formula has raised particular concern among pediatric nutritionists, as they have a high glycemic index and provide no nutritional benefit beyond calories. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends limiting added sugars for all age groups, including infants. Regulatory agencies have not specifically restricted corn syrup solids.
Locust Bean Gum: 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.
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