There are at least 3 grades of gum Arabic available commercially and the quality of every grade differs by character and color in collected tears. There’s considerable variation in gum Arabic quality depending on whether this is acquired by the natural flow secondary to drought, acquired by induced or tapping by boring of the beetles at the sites of the branch injury. The gums derived from the Combretum are available at low prices in West and East Africa and often available as gum Arabic. Since there’s no toxicologic data that support the safety of such gums, they’re not recognized as the food additives by other countries. Aside from that, the trees of genus Abizia are sometimes confused with Acacia and must not be used as the acacia substitutes.

Hashab grade gum Arabic has 4 primary grades. But, the 2 of these – Cleaned and HPS – are considered as the primary ones when entering international trade. The names of 4 grades arise from the way in which gums are sorted and cleaned. A small amount of natural gum is used to be common in the market, yet its demand is very little. Moreover, since year 1994, the processed grade was available. 

These grades have different export prices. It also depends on the company that produced Hashab grade gum Arabic. So, if you are looking for a cheap alternative, always do your own research first before you purchase one. The reason behind it is that not all of them are the same and won’t offer you the same quality you are searching for a hashab grade gum Arabic. If it’s your first time, ask for help.