Tamarindus Indica Seed Gum
Tamarind seed polysaccharide has long history of food use in Asia. EFSA in 2017 evaluated tamarind seed polysaccharide as a novel food and concluded it is safe for proposed uses up to ~10 g/day in adults.
What it is
Tamarind seed gum (TSG) is a polysaccharide gum extracted from the kernels of Tamarindus indica seeds, primarily composed of xyloglucan.
Thickener, stabilizer, gelling agent, and water-binder; alternative to pectin or starches.
Why it's flagged
- limited Western regulatory experience
- fiber-related GI effects at very high intakes
What regulators actually say
"The Panel concludes that tamarind seed polysaccharide is safe under the proposed uses and use levels."
"Tamarind seed polysaccharide is included in the Union list of novel foods authorised to be placed on the market within the Union."
Regulatory status
United States — FDA
Self-affirmed GRAS in some uses; not on FDA's GRAS list (limited US history)
European Union — EFSA
Authorized as novel food (Commission Implementing Regulation (EU) 2017/2470 listing)
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