Xanthan gum is a fascinating polysaccharide that has garnered significant attention in the food industry and beyond. This remarkable gum is produced through the fermentation of carbohydrates by the bacterium Xanthomonas campestris. Originally discovered in the 1960s, xanthan gum quickly gained popularity due to its unique properties, which make it an invaluable thickening and stabilizing agent.

Xanthan gum is renowned for its ability to enhance the texture of a wide array of food products. It is commonly found in salad dressings, sauces, ice creams, and gluten-free baked goods. Chefs appreciate xanthan gum for its ability to create a smooth, stable texture without altering the flavor of the food. Additionally, it allows for the creation of low-fat products by providing creaminess without the addition of fat.

In the realm of gluten-free cooking and baking, xanthan gum is particularly crucial. Gluten provides elasticity and offers structure to baked goods, which is essential for their rise and texture. When gluten is absent, xanthan gum helps to mimic these properties, giving gluten-free products a satisfactory texture that closely resembles their traditional counterparts.

Beyond its culinary uses, xanthan gum also finds applications in industries such as cosmetics and pharmaceuticals. In personal care products, it acts as a thickener and stabilizer in lotions and creams, ensuring a uniform consistency. In pharmaceuticals, xanthan gum can serve as a binder in tablet formulations and as a suspending agent in liquid medications.

In summary, xanthan gum, derived from the fermentation of carbohydrates by Xanthomonas campestris, is a versatile and valuable ingredient in both food and non-food industries. Its unique properties allow it to enhance texture, improve stability, and replicate functional characteristics of gluten, making it indispensable for a variety of applications. As the demand for gluten-free products and stabilizers continues to rise, xanthan gum's popularity and relevance in modern formulations are likely to endure.