Xanthan Gum: These foods contain xanthan gum (E415)

Xanthan gum is used as a thickening and stabilising agent in food to provide a smooth and creamy consistency. It is added to products such as dressings, sauces, ice cream, baked goods, drinks and ready meals.

The substance occurs naturally in small amounts in plants, but is produced industrially by fermenting sugar until it becomes a viscous liquid, which is then dried into a mass and ground into a fine powder.

Xanthan gum makes a food ultra-processed because it is produced through a fermentation process and is added to influence texture and taste experience.