Xanthan gum is a natural high molecular weight polysaccharide produced by a fermentation process. Due to its exceptional rheological properties it is a very effective stabilizer for water-based systems. Its numerous areas of application cover a broad range, from the food industry to oil drilling. Typical food applications of xanthan gum are salad dressings, sauces, gravies, dairy products, desserts, low-calorie foods and convenience foods in general. Xanthan gum is also used in cleaners, coatings, polishes and in agricultural flowables. (C) 1998 Elsevier Science Limited. All rights reserved.