The endosperm is rich in galactomannans (polysaccharides), which make up 88% of its dry weight. Galactomannans are hydrophilic and swell in water. If mixed with other gelling agents, such as carrageenan (carrageenins, polysaccharides derived from red edible seaweed), they can be used to thicken the liquid portion of food.
This is widely used in animal food to achieve a gelatinous texture.
