Guar Gum

Definition/Description: Native guar gum is the ground endosperm of seeds from natural strains of guar Cyamopsis tetragonolobus L. Taub. ( Leguminosae family). It consists of a high molecular weight polysaccharide, primarily composed of galactopyranose and mannopyranose units combined through glycosidic linkages, which may be described chemically as a galactomannan (galactomannan content not less than 75 %). Appearance: White to yellowish powder

Specification: https://www.legislation.gov.uk/eur/2017/2470/annex/paragraph/2

Conditions under which the novel food may be used: Food category Maximum levels

Cereals accompanied by a dairy product, in packaging containing two compartments 10 g/100 g in the cereals; None in the accompanying dairy product; 1 g/100 g in the product when ready to eat

Fresh dairy products such as yogurts, fermented milks, fresh cheeses and other dairy-based desserts. 1.5 g/100 g

Fruit or vegetable-based compotes 3.25 g/100 g

Fruit or vegetable-based liquid foodstuffs (of the 'smoothie' variety) 1.8 g/100 g

Food category	Maximum levels
Cereals accompanied by a dairy product, in packaging containing two compartments	10 g/100 g in the cereals; None in the accompanying dairy product; 1 g/100 g in the product when ready to eat
Fresh dairy products such as yogurts, fermented milks, fresh cheeses and other dairy-based desserts.	1.5 g/100 g
Fruit or vegetable-based compotes	3.25 g/100 g
Fruit or vegetable-based liquid foodstuffs (of the 'smoothie' variety)	1.8 g/100 g

Additional specific labelling requirements: 1. The designation of the novel food on the labelling of the foodstuffs containing it shall be 'Guar Gum'.
2. A specific mention of the possible risks of digestive discomfort linked to the exposure of children aged under 8 to guar gum must be visible on the label of any foodstuffs containing it. For example, 'Excessive consumption of these products may cause digestive discomfort, especially for children under 8 years of age'.
3. In the case of products with two compartments containing dairy and cereal products respectively, the instructions for use must clearly specify the need to mix the cereal and the dairy product before consumption, in order to take into account the potential risk of gastro-intestinal obstruction.

Legislation links: England, Scotland, Wales: Assimilated EU Regulations 2017/2470 , Assimilated EU Regulations 2018/1023

Last updated: 01 April 2025 The date the item authorisation was last updated.

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