What is xanthan gum? And what does natural flavor really mean? Here are some quick definitions of the ingredients you may find in natural ice cream.

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  Carob Bean Gum

   

  Also called "locust bean gum", this gum is extracted from the carob tree and is used as a thickening agent in foods and certain textiles.

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  Guar Gum

   

  Also called “guaran,” this substance is made from guar beans. Used as a stabilizing agent, it thickens water more effectively than cornstarch does.

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  Tara Gum

   

  Tara gum is a thickening agent used in processed food. It comes from grinding the seeds of the tara tree. Tara gum can be found in ice cream, tortillas, and cheese and is also used in pharmaceuticals and cosmetic manufacturing. It is indigestible.

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  Natural Flavor

   

  Derived from a variety of plant, animal, or bacterial sources, natural flavors are often reduced to an essential oil, extract, or compound. They are then mixed to produce a discernible flavor and are used in very small amounts to flavor foods. They provide no nutritional value.

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  Xanthan Gum

   

  This stabilizer keeps ingredients from separating. It takes its name from the specific bacteria strain used during fermentation.

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  Locust Bean Gum

   

  This is another name for carob bean gum.

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  Soy Lecithin

   

  Lecithin refers to a wide spectrum of fatty compounds found in plant and animal tissues. Often used as an emulsifier, it is also found in cooking sprays.

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  Tapioca Starch

   

  Derived from the root of the cassava plant, this ingredient adds structure and a chewy consistency to foods.