Loading…
The facts: Xanthan Gum is not banned worldwide, but some health agencies have flagged concerns. We can't tell you whether it's safe for your pregnancy — that's a conversation for your OB-GYN or midwife. What we can do is show you the regulatory facts and flag Xanthan Gum on any product's label so you can decide with your provider. Commonly found in: Bob's Red Mill Gluten-Free Flour, Hidden Valley Ranch Dressing, Breyers Ice Cream.
TL;DR: Xanthan Gum is allowed in the EU and allowed in the US. Here's what to know if you're pregnant.
| EU status | Allowed |
|---|---|
| US status | Allowed |
| Risk level (regulatory) | low |
| Where it shows up | Bob's Red Mill Gluten-Free Flour, Hidden Valley Ranch Dressing, Breyers Ice Cream, Kraft Mac & Cheese, Nature Valley Bars |
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.
Provides viscosity, stabilizes emulsions, and mimics gluten structure in gluten-free products; also used to prevent ice crystal formation in frozen foods.
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.
For educational use only. This page summarizes the regulatory status of Xanthan Gum with citations to the primary sources below. It is not medical advice and is not pregnancy-specific medical guidance. Consult your OB-GYN or midwife for decisions about your pregnancy.
Xanthan Gum is not currently banned worldwide, though some agencies have flagged concerns. See the sources below.
That's a decision for you and your OB-GYN or midwife — we don't give medical advice. What we can tell you is the regulatory status above. Many people choose to limit additives during pregnancy out of caution; bring this page and its sources to your next appointment.
Commonly found in Bob's Red Mill Gluten-Free Flour, Hidden Valley Ranch Dressing, Breyers Ice Cream, Kraft Mac & Cheese, Nature Valley Bars. Scan any product's barcode to check its label for Xanthan Gum.
Guar gum, psyllium husk, or flaxseed gel can replace xanthan gum in gluten-free baking. Chia seeds provide similar binding in some applications. See the pregnancy-conscious swaps below.
Scan any product's barcode and instantly see if it contains Xanthan Gum or other ingredients restricted overseas.
Scan a product free →Our scores are never influenced by brands. Last updated 6/11/2026.
Audited products that don't contain Xanthan Gum.
As an Amazon Associate, BannedPantry earns from qualifying purchases. This never influences our ratings — see Affiliate Disclosure.