Thickener is a substance that increases the viscosity of a liquid, making it thicker without substantially changing its other properties. Common examples include starches (like cornstarch), gums (like xanthan and guar gum), and proteins (like gelatin and egg yolks), which are used in food, as well as in cosmetics, paints, and other industries. They work by absorbing water to form a gel-like or more viscous structure.
thicking agent is a substance which can increase the viscosity of a liquid without substantially changing its other properties. Edible thickeners are commonly used to thicken sauces, soups, and puddings without altering their taste; thickeners are also used in paints, inks, explosives, and cosmetics.