What Are Thickening Agents?
Thickening agents are functional additives that increase the viscosity of liquid or semi-liquid foods – making them thicker, creamier or more stable in consistency. They help sauces stay homogeneous, prevent desserts from collapsing and ensure drinks have a uniform appearance. In the food industry, they play a key role in texture, processability and the overall product experience.
Depending on the application, various natural thickening agents are used – many of them plant-based and suitable for clean labelling.
Plant-Based Thickening Agents from DistrEbution
We offer selected thickening agents in powder form that are easy to dose and highly versatile. These include, among others:
- Xanthan gum (E 415): A highly effective, plant-based thickening agent with excellent temperature and pH stability. Ideal for sauces, dressings, delicatessen products and gluten-free doughs.
- Guar gum (E 412): A well-established thickener for food applications – especially in combination with other ingredients. Suitable for creams, baked goods, sauces and plant-based products.
- Gum arabic (E 414): Primarily used as an emulsifier or binder, but can also have a mild thickening effect in certain formulations – e.g. in beverages or coated products.
All our products are suitable for use in the food industry – also available in larger pack sizes.
Buy Thickening Agents – Plant-Based, Versatile & Food-Grade
Looking for a reliable thickening agent for your formulation? At DistrEbution, you can easily order the right pack size online – from small-scale development to large-scale production. Our team is happy to support you in selecting the right product.
FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions About Thickening Agents
Which thickening agents are plant-based?
Many commonly used thickeners are plant-derived – including xanthan gum (E 415), guar gum (E 412) and gum arabic (E 414). These are considered natural thickening agents and are suitable for vegan and vegetarian formulations.
What’s the best thickening agent for cold applications?
Xanthan is particularly well-suited for cold applications, as it works without heating and remains highly stable – even under pH variations or mechanical stress.
Are your thickening agents suitable for use in the food industry?
Yes – our thickening agents are food-grade, well-documented and available in various pack sizes. They are suitable for industrial-scale production as well as smaller batches in development or artisan manufacturing.
How do I dose thickening agents correctly?
The recommended dosage depends on the specific product and application. Many thickening agents are highly effective and used in small quantities – precise usage instructions can be found in the product description or technical data sheet.
