Masud Alam
If we compare gum with hydrocolloid (hydrogel), then gum is also a hydrogel. The structure of gums differs greatly in chemical structure and colloidal properties, depending on the production methods. For example, when comparing uncharged gums and charged hydrocolloids, this is the main difference. But they may not differ if both types of hydrogels are with the absence of a charge or its presence.
"Some hydrocolloids are not gums, and some gums are not hydrocolloids. Among the latter are 'chewing gums' and many gum adhesives, which are water-insoluble rubbery materials."
Taken from https://water.lsbu.ac.uk/water/hydrocolloids_gums.html
The term is often used interchangeably in many contexts, but there are some subtle differences:
- Gums: Typically refer to polysaccharides or their derivatives (often large molecular size), usually extracted from plant sources. Mainly used for thickening, stabilizing, and gelling.
- Hydrocolloids: A broader term that includes gums but also encompasses other substances that form colloids in water (can have varying molecular sizes). Can be derived from plants, animals, or produced by microorganisms. Have a wider range of functions including emulsification, encapsulation, and film formation in addition to thickening and gelling.
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