The Hidden Thickeners Lurking in Your Favorite Soups, Sauces, and Desserts

Ever wonder what gives soups that velvety texture, sauces their luxurious thickness, or desserts their smooth consistency? Often, it's hidden thickeners – additives that can spell trouble for diners with dietary restrictions. While some are harmless, others contain gluten, hidden carbs, animal derivatives, or common allergens.

Sneaky Thickeners to Watch For:

• Flour & Wheat Starch: Common in gravies and cream soups, posing risks for celiacs and gluten-sensitive diners.
• Cornstarch: A gluten-free thickener, but hidden carbs may concern diabetics and low-carb dieters.
• Gelatin: Derived from animal collagen (often pork/beef), invisible to vegans/vegetarians in gummy desserts or sauces.
• Xanthan Gum: A fermentated sugar thickener that may trigger IBS or digestive issues.
• Egg Yolks & Cream: Unlisted emulsifiers in custards and bisques, problematic for dairy/egg allergies or low-cholesterol diets.

Restaurants rarely detail thickeners on menus, leaving you guessing. Cross-contamination is another silent risk when shared kitchen tools handle allergenic thickeners.

Take Control with mm food:

Don’t play menu roulette! Our app transforms dining safety:

1. Translate & Analyze: Snap a menu photo. mm food instantly translates it to your language and scans every dish for thickeners matching YOUR dietary profile.
2. Personalized Alerts: Set custom restrictions (gluten-free, vegan, low-carb, etc.). We flag dishes with problematic thickeners like gelatin in fruit glaze or flour in "gluten-free" soup.
3. Smart Alternatives: Receive suggestions based on ingredients – like swapping cream-based sauces for olive oil reductions.

Unmask hidden risks before you order. Eat out confidently, knowing mm food’s AI is your expert detective for every spoonful.