We are sad to report the passing of a hydrocolloid luminary and maverick. Dr. Harris (Pete) Bixler died in Maine on Friday, November 7, 2025, at the age of 93. I don't think Pete would mind my calling him a "Hydrocolloid Maverick". It was his 'can do' attitude and perseverance that was instrumental in getting the regulatory approval of semi-refined carrageenan (SRC). Aside from helping food formulators, Pete's work helped the tens, if not hundreds, of thousands of seaweed farmers in the Philippines and other parts of the world. He worked in close coordination with Shemberg's Benson Dakay, and others of the seaweed industry to achieve this landmark approval. I had the pleasure of traveling with Pete (the Philippines and China) and the honor of having him as a speaker or attendee at several IMR Hydrocolloid conferences. Dynamic energy!! May you rest in peace on a soft bed of cottonii or spinosum, Pete

Gum Acacia - Steady There is continued and tragic turmoil in Sudan which is the largest source of gum acacia, especially the Senegal (emulsifying) grade. Despite this dire situation, raw gum continues to make its way out of the country and spray dried material remains readily available. A tribute to the resourcefulness of those active in Sudan itself. Some Western buyers are placing tighter restrictions and requirements on assuring "provenance" from "acceptable" regions. As if the "situation" in Sudan did not make things difficult enough. There have been several relatively new sources of raw material, each claiming a direct connection with sources in Sudan. A few of these were exhibiting at FI Africa in Cairo earlier this year. Acacia Senegal pricing (roughly and depending on volumes and contracts): Senegal US$8.00-9.00/kg Euro 7.00-8.00/kg Seyal US$4.50-5.50/kg Euro 3.75 - 4.25/kg Senegal roughly 70% higher than Seyal. There was a time when Senegal and Seyal prices were virtually the same: Q4-2008 : Senegal approx US$4.75/kg and Seyal approx US$4.50/kg

Guar Steady FOB prices of guar gum remain steady. Meanwhile there is continued uncertainty and hope for a trade deal between the US and India which would drastically reduce or even eliminate US import tariffs on guar. The following offers have been received by IMR recently (A reminder IMR does not buy or sell any hydrocolloid):

Guar Gum Powder 200 Mesh 6000 CPS 25 Kg. Paper Bag 6000 cps USD 1200/Mt. FOB 5000 cps per Bag USD 1175/Mt. FOB 3500 cps USD 1150/Mt. FOB

Fast Hydrating Guar - FHG - Oilfield Grade 38-42 CP FAN USD 1375/Mt. FOB

The same supplier also offers Cassia Tora gum - USD 1650/Mt. FOB

Under current circumstances it is recommended and many buyers are indeed, stocking longer term inventory of 6 months or even a year in some cases. Did we say it already? Just in time - Just forget it

Dealing with Uncertainty Five years ago with the outbreak of Covid-19, world trade went through unimaginable upheavals. Delivery was much delayed at best. Even samples and document delivery was disrupted. Hydrocolloids fared well in the sense that processed food consumption increased. Shipping and warehousing costs, however, also increased. Hydrocolloid suppliers with ready to deliver warehoused inventory could command significant premiums.

Presently, some five years after the onslaught of Covid 19, the uncertainty facing ingredient suppliers and food companies is related to the global ongoing tariff war. There seems to be a Yo-yo effect of one kind or another facing the food industry (and all other industries).

Bottom line, warehousing 3, 6, or even 12 months of inventory has become common and is likely to remain so in the foreseeable future even if the tariff situation alleviates. The added warehousing costs and reduced shelf life is of course borne by the end consumer. Sorry to be repetitive but.... "Just in time....."