What are some examples of carbohydrate thickeners?

• A. Gelatin, Egg Yolk, Casein
• B. Sorbitan Esters
• C. Acacia, Pectin, Tragacanth, Agar, Microcrystalline Cellulose
• D. Soaps and Sulfonates

Answer: (C)

Carbohydrate thickeners are hydrated polysaccharide polymers that increase the viscosity of aqueous solutions, often forming gel-like networks. The examples listed in this option are all plant-derived gums or carbohydrate polymers: Acacia (gum arabic), Pectin, Tragacanth, Agar, and Microcrystalline Cellulose. These substances swell in water and create thickness or gel structures that slow down flow, which is essential for suspensions, syrups, gels, and similar dosage forms.

In contrast, the other items are not carbohydrate thickeners: gelatin, egg yolk, and casein are proteins; sorbitan esters are emulsifiers/surfactants; and soaps and sulfonates are detergents/surfactants. So the best choice is the set of carbohydrate-based thickeners.