Gums are common additives in wet pet food used as thickening, gelling, and stabilizing agents. They help to create a desirable texture and consistency, ensuring the ingredients are evenly distributed throughout the product. Some of the most commonly used gums in wet pet food include:
Guar Gum: Derived from guar beans, it is a natural thickener and stabilizer that helps maintain the texture and consistency of wet food.
Xanthan Gum: Produced through fermentation of sugars, it is used for its thickening and stabilizing properties.
Carrageenan: Extracted from red seaweed, it acts as a gelling agent, helping to maintain the structure and moisture content of wet food.
While these gums are generally considered safe and effective for maintaining the quality of wet pet food, some concerns have been raised regarding their potential to cause gastrointestinal issues in sensitive pets. Premium pet food brands often focus on using high-quality, minimally processed ingredients, and may limit the use of such additives.