Food additives Europe numbers: E906
Gum benzoin, also known as gum benzoic or אסף (asafetida) in some cultures, is not commonly used as a food additive. Here's a breakdown:
- Limited Historical Use (Uncertain): There's limited and uncertain information about any historical widespread use of gum benzoin as a food additive. Some sources mention its use in specific regional food cultures, but this information is not well documented for safety or prevalence.
- Primarily a Fragrance and Resin: Gum benzoin is a resinous exudate obtained from certain trees [1]. It has a strong balsamic aroma and is primarily used in:
- Perfumery and Incense: As a fragrance ingredient due to its unique scent.
- Traditional Medicine (Limited): In some traditional medicine practices for various purposes, but its effectiveness is not scientifically confirmed [2].
- Potential Safety Concerns: While generally recognized as safe (GRAS) for some topical applications, the safety of gum benzoin for internal consumption is not well established [3]. It can cause stomach upset in some individuals.
Alternatives for Food Additives:
Since gum benzoin isn't a common food additive and has some safety uncertainties, there are better alternatives for functions like:
- Flavoring: A variety of herbs, spices, and extracts can be used to add flavor to food without safety concerns.
- Preservation: Approved food preservatives like salt, sugar, or certain organic acids are commonly used to extend shelf life [4].
Overall:
Gum benzoin is not a recommended food additive due to limited historical use, unclear safety for consumption, and better alternatives available for flavoring and preservation in food science.