Low Price Locust Bean Gum Affects Supply

Experts warn that low prices for locust bean gum could lead to future supply issues.

Locust bean gum (LBG) – also known as carob gum – is derived from the plant seed of the ceratonia siligua tree and is used in bakery products.

The white to yellow-white powder is insoluble up to a temperature of 82ºC, where its texturising and thickening properties kick in.

Currently, returns on pods do not make the harvest worthwhile for growers.

Experts say the product has dropped to around round $4.50-5.00 per lb, whereas they were sitting at $8.76 per lb during the end of 2008.