© 2026 Nanjing Finechem Holdings Co., Ltd,
All Right Reserved
Name: Gellan Gum (commonly used as Phytagel in plant tissue culture and food production)
Category: High-molecular polysaccharide produced by Sphingomonas elodea fermentation
Common Use: Gelling agent in food, microbiology, horticulture
Appearance: Off-white to light yellow powder
Odor: Neutral, plant-like
Solubility: Soluble in hot water, insoluble in cold water
Molecular Traits: Long-chain complex carbohydrate
Physical Risks: Slippery when spilled as dry powder, forms jelly if mixed with enough water
Health Risk: Minimal toxicity, not likely to irritate skin or eyes in ordinary use
Inhalation: Dust may bother sensitive airways if large amounts become airborne, especially in unventilated spaces
Environmental Hazard: Biodegradable, breaks down under normal environmental conditions
Flammability: Not easily ignitable but dust clouds may be combustible
Active Ingredient: Gellan gum, typically above 85 percent by dry weight
Other components: Trace fermentation by-products, mineral ions (calcium, magnesium, potassium), water less than 15 percent
Additives: Sometimes standardized with minor salts or buffer substances for lab or food use
Skin Contact: Rinse with soap and water; unlikely to cause reaction, moisturize if dryness occurs
Eye Contact: Flush eyes with plenty of clean water if powder gets in, seek help if discomfort stays
Inhalation: Move to fresh air if coughing from heavy dust; drink water to clear throat
Ingestion: Not harmful in reasonable amounts, as commonly found in food; seek care if large accidental intake causes digestive upset
Fire Risk: Powder can support smoldering if exposed to open flame or high heat
Combustion Hazards: Produces carbon dioxide and minor carbon monoxide if burned
Preferred Extinguishing Methods: Use water spray, dry chemical or foam; avoid strong jets which disperse powder
Personal Protection: Standard protective equipment including mask and goggles if large fire
Small Spills: Sweep, gather carefully to avoid dust, dispose or reuse
Large Spills: Dampen lightly to help limit airborne dust, pick up with shovel or dustpan, ventilate area
Skin Protection: Gloves if direct contact for extended periods
Clean-Up Tools: Use wet mop after dry collection for final residues
Storage Conditions: Store dry powder in sealed container away from moisture and heat
Handling Tips: Scoop or pour gently to reduce airborne dust; keep containers closed when not in use
Best Location: Cool, dry room, not close to strong acids or oxidizers
Shelf Life: Two years or more when protected from air and damp,
Personal Protective Equipment: Dust mask or respirator for large handling jobs, goggles in powder-heavy environments, gloves if hands are sensitive
Ventilation: Use local exhaust fans if large volumes are transferred or mixed
Work Practice: Regular clean-up routines, avoid eating or drinking while handling
Hygiene: Wash hands after use, keep food and drink separate from work areas
Physical Form: Fine powder
Color: Pale yellow, sometimes nearly white
Odor: Not noticeable
Melting Point: Decomposes before melting
Solubility: Dissolves in hot water, fine suspension in cold water
Moisture Content: Low, unless exposed
pH (suspension): Neutral to slightly acidic
Stability: Resists spoilage unless left wet and exposed to bacteria or mold
Chemical Stability: Stable as long as kept dry and cool
Reactivity: Not reactive with common handling materials, doesn’t interact with glass or plastic
Incompatible Materials: Strong oxidizers, concentrated acids
Decomposition: High heat or open flame leads to carbon oxides
Oral Toxicity: Very low, widely used in foods and pharmaceuticals
Inhalation: Dust may cause mild short-term discomfort if inhaled in excess but not considered hazardous
Skin Sensitivity: Extremely rare, not recognized as skin allergen
Chronic Effects: No known chronic hazard recorded in food or lab use
Carcinogenic Status: Not listed as carcinogenic by authoritative bodies
Biodegradability: Breaks down under typical conditions, feeds soil microbes over time
Aquatic Toxicity: No known harm to fish or aquatic life at typical use levels
Soil Impact: Degrades naturally, adds organic matter
Bioaccumulation: Not expected to build up in plants or animals
Household/Lab Waste: Safe for landfill in normal quantities, dilute and flush with plenty of water if disposing small amounts in drain
Industrial Disposal: Collect for proper organic waste handling, avoid release of excessive dust
Special Instructions: Avoid mixing with industrial chemicals, treat as non-hazardous for disposal
Shipping Status: Not classified as hazardous for transport by air, land, or sea
Packing: Use moisture-proof, well-sealed packaging; avoid stacking in damp areas
Spillage Response: Clear up carefully to prevent slipping or inhalation
Food and Lab Regulations: Approved as food additive in many countries, recognized as safe at typical concentrations
Worker Safety: No special workplace restrictions beyond normal hygiene practices
Labeling: Accurate labeling as “gellan gum” or “Phytagel” recommended for traceability
