Food Additives Encyclopedia

English

简体中文

English

简体中文

Appearance

gum guaicum ​

Basic Information ​

FieldContent
Chinese namegum guaicum
English namegum guaicum
INS/E numberINS 241
Functional classPreservative
Year adopted1973
Approved byTo be added.

What is it? ​

Gum guaiac (guaiac resin) is a natural resin exuded from the lignum vitae tree, rich in antioxidant phenolics, used mainly as an antioxidant in fatty foods.

Source ​

Natural：愈创木（Guaiacum officinale 等）树干渗出树脂

Why is it used? ​

  • Retards oxidative rancidity of fats
  • Maintains colour and flavour of oily foods
  • Natural-source antioxidant
  • Used in animal fats, oils and some dairy products

Common Foods ​

  • Animal fats (lard, etc.)
  • Vegetable oils
  • Butter and dairy products
  • Meat products
  • Bakery products

Safety ​

ADI (Acceptable Daily Intake)：not specified (GMP)

Concerns：

  • 可能使食品带轻微棕色与气味
  • 主要限用于油脂类

Usage Standard ​

China：GB 2760《食品安全国家标准 食品添加剂使用标准》

International：

  • EU Regulation 1333/2008 Annex II (E 241)
  • FDA 21 CFR 184.1329 (Guaiac resin, GRAS)
  • Codex GSFA (INS 241)
  • Australia New Zealand Food Standards Code (Guaiac resin)
  • JECFA Monograph (ADI not specified)

In a nutshell ​

Gum guaiac is a natural antioxidant resin that retards fat rancidity and is considered safe.

Consumer Advice ​

Guaiac gum (guaiac resin) is a natural resin extracted from guaiacum trees, historically used as an antioxidant to prevent oils from turning rancid. Being plant-derived, it is natural, but it is not authorised as a food additive in most modern regulations such as the EU, nor is it in China's GB 2760, so it rarely appears in compliant foods. As a natural resin it has no significant toxicity, but consumers should not expect to find it in regulated foods.

Dietary Restrictions ​

  • Vegan: ✅
  • Halal: ✅
  • Kosher: ✅

Allergens ​

✅ Free from common allergens

Disclaimer ​

The information provided here is for discussion and educational purposes only. It is not medical advice or an evaluation/rating of any product or ingredient. This information may not apply to you; before using or taking any action, you should contact the manufacturer, vendor, medical, dietary, fitness, or other professionals. If you use any information provided here, you do so at your own risk.