Identification of Albizia gum exudates which are not permitted food additives

Abstract

Trees of the genus Albizia have frequently been confused with Acacia species. The genus Albizia has been recommended for more extensive arid zone development; its species are sources of tannins and gum exudates, which are not included in any of the regulatory lists of permitted food additives. Analytical data permitting their identification are therefore required to allow food law compliance to be monitored. This paper presents data which serve to characterize the gums from seven Albizia species, making a total of eleven Albizia species for which data are available. The presence of tannins, and high proportions of aluminium and heavy metals, indicates that gum importers and food processors must be vigilant to ensure that Albizia gums do not enter human food chains as adulterants or contaminants.

Keywords:

• Albizia
• Acacia
• gum excudates
• amino acids
• tannin content
• food additives