Origin
The food additive Traganth is the plant sap from the Astralagus plant. The gum-like secretion of the plant can be obtained by pricking the plant and catching the emerging plant sap. Subsequently, the sap is cleaned until it is food-safe. Traganth is very effective in even very small quantities and turns liquids into a viscous mass.
Usage
E 413 is permitted for all foods without restrictions and there are no maximum quantity limits. Traganth is primarily used in the following foods: desserts, ice cream, baked goods, ready meals, soups, mayonnaise, and sauces.
Risks
Traganth is controversial because it is suspected of having strong allergenic potential. The food additive is said to be able to trigger severe allergic reactions. However, E 413 is not metabolized by the body and has a mild laxative effect on the human organism.