Gond Katira, (Gum Karaya,Sterculia Gum, Tragacanth,)

Properties

• Gum karaya is an acidic, partially acetylated polysaccharide

• lt is white or intense ruby in colour and solidifies into large,roundish tears

• It is not soluble in water but swells into a jelly like mass in water. lt absorbs water at very rapidly to form viscous mucilages it is one of low concentrations, although the least soluble among exudate gums.

• Karaya is a calcium and magnesium salt,with a central chain of D-galactose, L-rhamnose and D-galacturonic acid units, with some side chains containing D-glucuronic acid.

• Heating gum karaya dispersions increases the,solubility but results in permanently lower viscosities.

• Gum karaya is approved for food use and is in the GRAS (Generally Recognized Act Safe) list under the Food and Drug Act properties to yield finished products.