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Source: The post is based on the article “Gum Arabic: Why Sudan war could hit your fizzy drinks and candy” published in Indian Express on 1st May 2023
What is the News?
The Sudan Conflict has impacted the trade of Gum Arabic.
What is Gum Arabic?
Gum Arabic is a natural gum derived from the hardened sap of two species of the Acacia tree – Senegalia Senegal and Vachellia seyal.
The gum is harvested commercially from wild trees, mostly in Sudan (70%) and throughout the Sahel (from Senegal to Somalia).
Gum Arabic first found its way to Europe via Arabic ports, hence the name.
Uses: It is used in printing, paints, glues, cosmetics, and viscosity control in the inks and textile industries.
– It is also used in the food industry and soft-drink industry as a stabilizer.
How has the Sudan Conflict impacted Gum Arabic Trade?
About 70% of the world’s supply of gum arabic comes from the Sahel region that runs through Sudan which is being torn apart by fighting between the army and a paramilitary force.
Due to this, international consumer goods makers are racing to shore up supplies of gum arabic as there is no alternative to gum arabic in fizzy drinks where it prevents ingredients from separating.
