Tara gum
Learn what Tara gum (E417) is, why it's added to food, whether it's safe, and which products contain it.
Low concernWhat is Tara gum?
A plant-derived food additive used as a stabilizer and thickening agent. It is used in the quantities specified in recipes for dairy products, sweets, creams, emulsified spreads with or without flavors, sauces, toppings, dressings, ice cream, processed and preserved fruits and vegetables, meat products, fish, eggs, spices, soups, broths, edible films, plant-based protein products, nutritional supplements, etc.
Why is Tara gum added to food?
Tara gum (E417) is a emulsifier commonly found in: Dairy products, sweets, creams, margarine, canned fruits.
Permitted quantity: No maximum allowable dose has been established.
Is Tara gum safe?
Low concern
No secondary effects have been reported at the quantities incorporated into foods.
Is Tara gum banned anywhere?
✓ Not currently banned in the EU or known to be restricted in other countries.
Is Tara gum okay for kids?
Not permitted in foods intended for infants and young children.
Common foods that contain Tara gum
- Dairy products
- sweets
- creams
- margarine
- canned fruits
How to spot Tara gum on labels
Look for any of these names in the ingredients list:
- E417
- Tara gum
Common misspellings to watch for:
- tard gum
- tara gum
- tara qum
- tdra gum
Better alternatives
• May cause abdominal discomfort or bloating in individuals with gastrointestinal sensitivity. • Excessive use may lead to mild laxative effects. • People with legume allergies should avoid using this ingredient.
Also known as
- tard gum
- tara gum
- tara qum
- tdra gum
Scan products with BioBrief
Not sure if a product contains Tara gum? BioBrief scans the barcode and instantly shows you every additive in the ingredients list — including E417 — with a plain-language explanation.
Frequently asked questions about Tara gum
- Is Tara gum safe to eat?
- No secondary effects have been reported at the quantities incorporated into foods.
- Is Tara gum banned anywhere?
- Tara gum is not currently banned in the EU or known to be restricted in other countries.
- Is Tara gum safe for children?
- Not permitted in foods intended for infants and young children.
- How do I spot Tara gum on a food label?
- Look for E417, Tara gum in the ingredients list. It may also appear as: tard gum, tara gum, tara qum.
Ingredients change. Always check the actual product label before purchasing. Information on this page is for educational purposes only.