Physiochemical Features, Qualitative and Quantitative Analysis, Present Status and Application Prospects of Polysaccharide Gums

Gums, generally plant-derived polysaccharides, have been widely used in various fields of the pharmaceutical and food industries in recent years. Natural gums are formed as a result of a protective reaction to plant damage or due to negative conditions (drought), as a result of the destruction of cell walls (gummosis); also bacteria cultures, seaweeds can serve as gum sources. Gums are of great interest due to the wide application spectrum; it is based both on their physicotechnological (structure-forming agents) and the biological properties (inertness). This is an important factor in the development of food products and drugs. They also find applications in cosmetics, inks, paper, and textiles. The article aims to summarize the numerous obtained data and to establish current and prospects for gum quality control and application.