06Mar, 2019

0Comments

Guar (Cyamopsis tetragonolobus), which belongs to the leguminosae family, is an annual plant, with large leaves and clusters of bean like pods, each containing from six to nine pea-shaped seeds. The plant grows in Pakistan, is drought resistant and grows well in those semi-arid areas where less hardy crops perish. The Guar crop is sowed after the monsoons, and harvested in early winter. The pods (from 5 to 8 cm) are then opened mechanically to collect the seeds. The guar seed is dicotyledonous, with a diameter of approximately 2.5mm. It contains a large fibrous material composed of thin layers of cellusic material.

Guar seeds used in the production of guargum powder. which is used as food additive. Food additives play a vital role in today’s bountiful and nutritious food supply. Legally it refers to any substance the intended use which results or may be reasonably be expected to result-directly or indirectly-in its becoming a component or otherwise affecting the characteristics of any food. This definition includes any substance used in the production, processing, treatment, packaging, transportation or storage of food. Additives have been used for many years to preserve, flavour, blend, and thicken foods, and have played an important role in reducing serious nutritional deficiencies among people.