Alland & Robert, an international leader in acacia gum, carried out a survey in the UK, Germany, Japan and the US regarding the nutritional knowledge of acacia gum. The responses were both surprising and unexpected.
More than 58% of British people always read food labels before purchasing
58.47% of the 1,000 British people surveyed confirmed that they consistently read food labels before buying a product (35.36% do it occasionally). Moreover, more than 65% recognise that the letter E represents a food additive.
However, the question concerning the origin of these food additives proved to be more difficult. In fact, almost 40% are unaware that food additives can be either natural or chemical, and 32.77% wrongly believe that food additives are solely chemical.
Acacia gum (Arabic gum) is a 100% natural additive and sap exudate taken from an incision in the acacia tree trunk. In addition to the product’s natural origin, the harvest – carried out in the Sahel countries in Africa – is also natural.
Guaranteed pesticide- and GMO-free, acacia gum also functions as an emulsifier and a stabilising agent and is used in many applications, including confectionery, fizzy and soft drinks, baked goods, dairy products and ice cream, health products, and snack foods.
49% of British people asked are unaware of the practical uses of acacia gum. Furthermore, only 22.41% know that it is present in bread; over 42% of Americans are aware of this.
Almost 46% prefer products which are a source of fibre
45.62% of the British survey respondents are particularly drawn to food products that are rich in fibre (although in Germany this figure is even higher at 65.45%).
However, more than 82% aren’t aware that acacia gum is a very fibre-rich dietary additive. Acacia gum producer Alland & Robert ensures at least 90% fibre content.
As a source of fibre, acacia gum has many advantages, including resistance to acidity and heat, no side effects nor intestinal troubles, low in calories, and a very low glycemic index, as well as scientifically proven prebiotic effects.
Alland & Robert will be at FIE (Food Ingredients Europe) in Frankfurt from 28–30 November at stand OL51, hall 8.
Its Syndeo range won a World Beverage Innovation Award in the best beverage ingredient category.
© FoodBev Media Ltd 2024