The present work aims to study the synergistic effect between xanthan gum (X) with a range of hydrocolloids
such as barley b-glucan (Bg), guar gum (G), and konjac-mannan (K) on the viscosity of heattreated
fruit juice based beverages. The protective effect of X on the stability of Bg, G, and K in a fruit juice
based beverage during processing and storage (0e16 weeks at 4 C or 20 C) was also evaluated. The
results showed that pasteurization stabilized viscosity and turbidity of beverages enriched in Bg and BgX.
However, the viscosity of pasteurized beverages enriched in K and G varied with storage time. In general,
addition of X showed a complete protective effect against degradation at 4 C for K (KX) whereas it
provides no protection at all for G (GX). Viscosity and turbidity of beverages prepared with Bg and BgX
increased significantly while those with G and K decreased slightly over time. Viscosity and turbidity
changes are rapid when beverages are stored at 20 C. We clearly evidenced that processing and storage
treatments along with proper formulation are crucial to ensure technological stability of dietary fibers
and X proved to be efficient to stabilize other fibers.