A review of plant-derived gums and mucilages: Structural chemistry, film forming properties and application

Plant-based gums and mucilages are versatile biopolymers with significant industrial, environmental, and biological applications. Derived from various plant sources such as seeds, roots, leaves, and exudates, these polysaccharides comprise proteins, bioactive substances, and neutral sugars like arabinose, galactose, and galacturonic acid. Their unique structural and functional properties, such as high viscosity, water retention, and heat stability, make them valuable in the food, pharmaceutical, and cosmetic industries. Due to their hydrophilic nature and ability to form hydrogen bonds with water, these materials serve as emulsifiers, film-forming agents, gelling agents, and stabilizers. Recent studies have…