Lactic Acid vs Xanthan Gum: which is worse?

What is Lactic Acid?

Lactic acid is an organic acid naturally produced during fermentation of carbohydrates by lactic acid bacteria. It gives fermented foods such as yogurt, cheese, and sauerkraut their characteristic tangy flavor. Commercial lactic acid used in food is produced by bacterial fermentation of glucose or lactose, or in some cases by chemical synthesis.

What is Xanthan Gum?

Xanthan gum is a polysaccharide produced by fermentation of sugars by the bacterium Xanthomonas campestris. It is a white to off-white powder that dissolves in cold or hot water to form a viscous gel. It is widely used as a thickener and stabilizer and is a key ingredient in gluten-free baking.

Documented risks

Lactic Acid: Lactic acid is a normal byproduct of human metabolism (produced during anaerobic exercise). It is generally recognized as safe at food additive levels. Excessive consumption of foods acidified with lactic acid could theoretically contribute to dental erosion, as with all acidulants. For individuals with rare inborn errors of lactate metabolism, dietary lactic acid may require monitoring.

Xanthan Gum: Generally recognized as safe by both FDA and EFSA. At high doses, xanthan gum can have laxative effects due to its fermentable fiber content, producing gas and bloating in some individuals. A 2011 case report in the journal Pediatrics raised concerns about xanthan gum in infant formula (as 'Simply Thick') being associated with necrotizing enterocolitis; the FDA subsequently advised against its use in premature infants. For healthy adults consuming normal food amounts, it poses no significant health risk.