Dextran
Dextran is a high molecular weight polysaccharide having α1→ 6, α1→ 3 linked glucans. It is produced by the bacterial fermentation of sucrose by Leuconostoc dextranicum followed by partial depolymerisation and purification of the fermented mixture to produce a substance that is free of viable micro organisms.
Dextran is a fine, white powder that dissolves readily in hot or cold water to give a clean and viscous solution. It has good humectant and water-holding properties and imparts good bodying attributed to liquid systems.