E410: Locust Bean Gum (Carob Bean Gum / LBG)

Direct Answer

E410 (Locust Bean Gum / LBG) is a galactomannan polysaccharide milled from the seeds of the carob tree (Ceratonia siliqua). INS 410, ADI is Not Limited (Quantum Satis), providing smooth melt-down and freeze-thaw ice crystal inhibition in premium ice creams.

Source: EFSA ANS Panel (2017) / Codex · Last reviewed Aug 28, 2026

Specs

E-Number Code	E410
INS / Codex Number	INS 410
Functional Class	Thickener, Stabilizer, Syneresis Inhibitor
Acceptable Daily Intake (ADI)	Not Limited (Quantum Satis)
Mannose to Galactose Ratio	4 : 1 (High mannose backbone requires heating to 85°C for full hydration)
Primary Mechanism	Synergistically cross-links with xanthan gum and carrageenan to form elastic gels and halt ice crystallization
Common Target Foods	Ice creams (prevents icy graininess), cream cheeses, infant formula thickeners, fruit sauces
Dietary Compliance	100% Vegan (Carob tree seed endosperm), Halal, Kosher
Safety Approval	EFSA Authorized / FDA GRAS (21 CFR 184.1343)

Xanthan-LBG Synergistic Gelation

Neither xanthan gum nor locust bean gum can form a true gel individually. When mixed together in a 1:1 ratio, smooth mannan regions bind xanthan helices, creating a firm, elastic, reversible gel.