#Natural Thickener Market

[rabbitrah]

A continuation on my post about unloved foods, specifically this is my in-depth defense of root beer.

Root Beer isn't inherently gross, it's just one of those weird local flavors that's off-putting to people who didn't grow up with it. We all like different things and also we all tend to like flavors that are similar to what we grew up with. That's okay! But honestly root beer is pretty unique and, in my opinion, delicious.

One of the main complaints against root beer is that it tastes like medicine. Funnily enough, it was originally marketed as medicinal! This is true for most OG sodas actually. Pretty much as soon as carbonated water was invented, people were drinking it to soothe various ailments. A lot of the original soft drinks were actually invented by pharmacists. I just think that root beer is especially cool because the main flavor came from the root bark of sassafras, a common North American shrub. Because it's so widespread and aromatic, all parts of the sassafras plant have been used in food and medicine by many different Native American tribes throughout history and was subsequently picked up and used by European colonists. In the 1960s, some studies indicated that that safrole oil, which is produced by the plant, can cause liver damage. Whether or not this would actually remain true after it had been boiled and added to root beer is unclear, but it was really easy to replicate the flavor, so the sassafras in commercial root beer these days is artificial. Another fun fact about safrole is that it's a precursor in the synthesis of MDMA. None of this information has stopped my childhood habit of eating sassfras leaves right off the shrub whenever I walk past it on a hike. I'm like 85% sure it's safe and also mmmm yummy leafs go crunch.

Another root beer complaint is that it tastes like toothpaste. I think this is probably because another key flavor in most root beer recipes is wintergreen. I'm assuming that the people who think this are the same people who think mint chocolate chip ice cream tastes like toothpaste. I can understand and even respect that some people don't like mint and associate it only with brushing their teeth, but like. Mint is a pretty common flavor. I mean I think it's safe to say that humans have been eating mint flavored stuff for longer than toothpaste has existed... anyway!

Other common flavors in root beer (real or artificial) are caramel, vanilla, black cherry bark, sarsaparilla root, ginger, and many more! There's not one official recipe, and root beer enthusiasts often have strong opinions about different brands. Some root beer is sharper, with more strong aromatic flavors, and others are mild and creamier.

Another thing I think is cool about root beer is that it's foamier than most sodas. This was originally because sassafras is a natural surfactant (and why sassafras is also a common thickening agent in Louisiana Creole cooking.) These days, other plant starches or similar ingredients are added to keep the distinctive foam. Root beer foam > all other soft drink foams. That's why root beer floats kick more ass than like, coke floats.

If you've never had root beer before, imagine if a sweetened herbal tea was turned into a soda, because that's basically what it is. If your first response to that is a cringe, fair enough. That's why lots of people don't like it. If your first response to that is "interesting... I might actually like it, though" then I encourage you to track down a can of root beer today, hard as that might be outside the US and Canada. Next time you see an "ew, root beer tastes like medicine/tooth paste" take, know that there's a reason for that, but also the same could be said for literally any herbal or minty food/drink.

My final take on root beer is that it would be the soda of choice for gnomes. Thank you and good night.

[arthurbristow]

Keep it close - Shigaraki x Reader

"Keep close," Shigaraki muttered, his crimson eyes scanning the bustling market around them. "I don't want to lose you in this crowd." His white hair fell messily over his face.

It was an unexpected outing, to say the least. The League of Villains rarely ventured out in daylight, especially to something as mundane as a game market. The two of you had left the hideout that afternoon, Shigaraki’s rare urge to indulge in some new video games coinciding with the League’s need for supplies. Dabi had been particularly insistent, his grumbling about running out of cigarettes becoming unbearable. So, with a list of groceries in hand, you accompanied Shigaraki to the market.

“Look at them, scrambling around for their mundane little pleasures,” he continued, hands twitching slightly as he spoke. “Pathetic.”

Navigating through the crowded streets, your eyes couldn’t help but notice the occasional glances and whispers directed your way. Shigaraki’s presence was hard to ignore, even if people didn’t recognize him. And you felt a wave of unease. The noise, the press of bodies, the constant motion—it was overwhelming. Your senses were on high alert, every fiber of your being screaming to find a point of stability. Shigaraki walked ahead, his posture tense but focused, clearly absorbed in his hunt for the perfect game.

The press of bodies around you intensified, and an accidental shove from an overenthusiastic passerby sent you stumbling. Without thinking, your hand shot out, grasping Shigaraki’s. The contact was immediate, grounding. Only a heartbeat later did you realize the full extent of your actions. His hand was bare — no protective gloves. A cold shiver ran down your spine. One wrong move, one slip of control, and you could be reduced to dust. Shigaraki’s Decay quirk was lethal, merciless. 

He stiffened, his head whipping around to look at you. “What are you doing?” he asked, his voice low and dangerous, but not entirely devoid of curiosity.

“I…” You swallowed hard, the words catching in your throat. “I just… needed to hold on to something.”

His laugh was a harsh bark, but there was no malice in it. “You’re insane.” Tomura didn’t pull his hand away though, didn’t dissolve you into nothingness. Instead, his grip tightened slightly, with his pinky raised up in the air to protect you from being decayed on the spot.

The two of you moved through the market like that, hand in hand. It felt strangely intimate, a connection that defied the perilous nature of his quirk. The crowd seemed less daunting with him by your side, your anxiety ebbing away with each step.

Shigaraki led you to a stall filled with the latest games. His eyes lit up as he browsed through the titles, a rare smile playing on his lips. It was a side of him you didn’t see often, this almost childlike excitement. You couldn’t help but smile too, caught up in his rare moment of happiness.

“Found it,” he said, holding up a game with a triumphant look. “This is the one.”

“Great,” you replied, your voice steadying. “Now, let’s get those groceries before Dabi sets the hideout on fire.”

Shigaraki chuckled, “Yeah.”

As you moved to the grocery section, the crowd thickened again. Instinctively, you tightened your grip on his hand. This time, he didn’t question it, at all.

You quickly gathered the items on your list, your movements efficient despite the mass of people. Cigarettes for Dabi, snacks for Toga, and various other necessities for the rest of the League. 

Through it all, Shigaraki stayed by your side, keeping his head lowered, reading the information written on the box of his new game, your hand still in his.

Holding Shigaraki's hand was a paradox of sensations. His skin, surprisingly warm, radiated a heat that contrasted sharply with the chilling fear of his lethal touch. The rough texture of his calloused palm told stories of countless battles and hardships. Yet, beneath the coarse exterior, there was a vulnerability — a silent plea for connection. The knowledge that a single slip could mean your end made the experience electrifying, heightening every sense. It was like holding a live wire: dangerous, exhilarating, and oddly comforting all at once. In that grip, there was a fragile trust, a delicate balance between life and decay, and an unspoken promise that for now, in this moment, you were safe.

Eventually, you managed to complete your shopping list. Dabi's cigarettes, snacks and manga for Toga, and even a few items for yourself. Shigaraki, meanwhile, had amassed a small pile of new games, his crimson eyes gleaming with satisfaction.

As you reached the entrance, you reluctantly let go of his hand. 

He glanced at you, a ghost of a smile playing on his lips. "You apparently liked holding my hand, hmm?" Tomura cooed, his tone softer than you’d ever heard.

"Yeah…" You replied, feeling a warmth spread through your chest and flush claiming your cheeks.

The corner of his mouth twitched upwards. "Just don’t make a habit of grabbing my hand. Next time, I might not be so careful."

[zeasty]

Callum had spent the day wandering the bustling markets of Ubud, his eyes drawn to a small stall tucked away in a corner. Among the trinkets and souvenirs, one item caught his attention: a wooden pendant, intricately carved with unfamiliar symbols. The elderly vendor behind the counter smiled knowingly.

"Very special," the vendor said, his voice thick with an accent. "It bring you closer to this land."

Callum didn't believe the vendor's words, but he thought it would be perfect for his outfit that night. He bought the pendant and slipped it into his pocket.

That evening, back in his apartment, Callum was getting ready for a party. The tropical night air drifted through the open windows as he pulled the pendant out, examining its detailed carvings in the soft light. With a shrug, he slipped it around his neck.

The moment the pendant settled against his chest, a strange warmth spread through his body. It started as a gentle pulse, but quickly grew into an intense heat, almost like a fire igniting under his skin. He gasped, clutching at the pendant, but his hands froze as a powerful tingling sensation surged through him.

Callum watched in horror as his skin began to darken, the pale complexion he'd known all his life slowly shifting to a deep, warm brown. It wasn't just a tan--his very pigmentation was changing, the transformation spreading from his chest outward, covering his arms, legs, and face.

He stumbled into the bathroom, gripping the sink as he watched his reflection morph in the mirror. His facial features softened, his nose broadening, lips thickening, his eyes darkening into a deep, rich brown. His hair, once a light brown, deepened to a jet black. His scalp itched, and when he reached up to scratch it, he found his hair shrinking back from his usual messy style into a short, close-cropped buzz cut.

The transformation didn't stop there. His mind began to fog, thoughts muddling as if something was rewiring his brain. His thoughts started to come in Bahasa Indonesia, even though moments before he couldn't have strung together more than a basic greeting.

His mannerisms shifted too--gone was the confident, somewhat brash demeanor he was known for back home. It was replaced with a relaxed, easygoing air, his gestures becoming more subtle, more respectful. His muscles, though powerful, now moved with a certain grace.

Callum stared at the stranger in the mirror. The man looking back was undeniably Indonesian, with deep brown skin, jet-black hair, and eyes that held a calm he had never known before. He raised a hand to his new buzz cut.

And that night, as the streets of Bali buzzed with life, he stepped out of his apartment, planning to go to the nightclub as he planned. He was here to party after all.

The beat of distant music pulled him like a magnet, guiding him to a nightclub nestled in the heart of town. As he approached, the bouncer nodded, recognizing him--or rather, the man he had become. He slipped inside, the pulsing lights and vibrant crowd instantly engulfing him.

Navigating the packed dance floor, Callum felt strangely at ease, his body moving effortlessly to the rhythm. He caught the eyes of a handsome man across the room, their gazes locking for just a moment before the stranger smiled and made his way over. Callum opened his mouth to speak, but the words that came out were soft, fluent Bahasa Indonesia.

"Selamat malam, apa kamu sering datang ke sini?" Callum asked, the words flowing naturally, even though they felt foreign just hours ago.

The man smiled wider, responding in kind. They chatted easily, Callum surprised at how comfortable he felt in this new language, in this new skin. The initial shock of transformation was fading, replaced by a growing sense of belonging, of connection--not just to the place, but to the person he was becoming.

As the night wore on, Callum found himself lost in the moment, the music, and the company. The stranger leaned in closer, their hands brushing, and Callum felt a warmth spread through him, different from the pendant's magic, but just as powerful.

For the first time, in a body that wasn't his, speaking a language that wasn't his own, Callum felt completely himself.

[xsapphirescrollsx]

Dominion

Written: Oct 17 2023

Just a lil story I wrote today. I haven't written in some time. I hope you enjoy it! I wrote this story to this song ^.^

@titty-teetee <3

The best lie ever told about them was that the sun kills. But that falsity never really affected your life, mostly. You moved through levels of society like you ruled the night, and told the sun when to rise. Your mother called you aloof, a lazy rich girl- that is if anybody outside your kinship actually knew only you pretended poverty. You didn’t need to wear a disguise like the rest of them. There was a permissive, creeping, effortless prowling that came to you naturally. You wanted to fit in, but that was like a cat feigning to be a mouse and you never outgrew that proclivity. 

And it was this attitude that made you catch hell from your sister and father when you showed up late. The building was in the shitties part of town. Barrels burned with stank garbage for warmth as you stepped out of the alley opposite. Forty floors of culture they said. Consequently hidden by poor souls soothing and numbing their bashed spirits the best they knew how, drugs. They weren’t even worth eating.

Thin black sling backs lightly tapped as you walked across the street, onto the cement sidewalk and toward the farthest left front door. Puffs of snow gathered in the corners of the brick pocket near the door. You glanced again and on closer inspection a body lay there, away from the fires out front but you kept walking.

Past the dirt covered, shabby peeling wallpaper and rusted gates separating the inside of the building from the outside grunge. You were buzzed in and immediately approached by Mer’gene, a friend, well one of the people in this world who has known you the longest besides your mother.

“You are not dressed appropriately,” she hissed and stared at the thin black shawl you wore.

Your eyes rolled from her prim expression to the crowd in the foyer that was beginning to thicken like coagulating platelets. 

“It’s busy tonight,” you half said to her, but more to yourself.

Mer’gene glanced that way, “Yes, they want to pick who’s going to be President of the United States tonight. All the Elders are here….like your forefather.”

At the mention of Charlemagne you began to peel off the shawl and handed it to Mer’gene. “Well we can’t let him get in the way of a little fun.”

Passing through the foyer you followed the flow of people dressed in their best. Opulent comes to mind once you set eyes on the familiar market. What should have been a lobby for an apartment building was lined with shops, stacked on top of other shops. Bright lighting from eternal fire flames atop of metal poles lit your way. The direct opposite of what was being the brick outside, here, inside was spotless, clean and smelled of incense. 

You window shopped for the most part, just listening to Mer’gene talk about everybody and nothing at the same time as you imagined owning a five thousand year old human leather purse. A normal Wednesday night.

A pop and flash came from somewhere on the fourth floor shops. You ignored it at first and chalked it up to a grieving kin who decided to self immolation. A scream, shrieked inhumanly into the air. All stopped and turned toward the sound. It was an alarm. It was a call to evacuate and didn’t have to be told twice. 

Once again you were ushered out with the crowd toward an exit that emptied out into an alley. Bright daybreak rose over the galvanized fence to the east in the grimy alley. Beyond it police cars lined the street, a smile began to crease your lips. A bushy haired man in a sweater and his badge clipped on his hip near his gun stood. 

There he was.

Outside on the streets in this location had you looking wholly out of place. But it didn’t stop you from approaching the cops. Innocently you gazed around, swayed in your step, maybe applied phony little hiccups. That caught his attention, god you were great at pretending weakness. 

“Ma’am, what made you think you could cross that yellow tape?” the man pointed back behind you but choosing not to look you stared at him forcing your eyes to dilate in the morning light. “Are you on somethin’?” he questioned again. 

You stepped forward, attempted to speak and promptly fainted. 

“Shit,” you heard him say as he caught your waist. 

“You got that one?” said another cop's voice. “She looks thick, might hurt your back.”

You made note of that remark and silently vowed to see what he tasted like - later.

“No I got her. She’s probably a rich asshole hopped up on something. I’ll take her back to the SUV.”

The man dragged you the best he could around the waist as you completely let yourself dead weigh him. One car, four cars, and finally around the corner away from the crime scene you heard the door open as he still struggled with your body. So you decided to start slurring your words and reacting to be held by a ‘stranger’.

“Let me go you fuckin’ bastard,” you spit out, wiped your mouth and struggled to stand. “You took me out here! You said we would have a great time…” you began to cry a bit to make it look convincing. 

The cop pushed you into the back seat and slammed the door. You leaned against the door and watched him walk around the front. His head pivoted while his eyes seemed to look for people who might be watching. You shut your eyes as he opened the door and got in the back seat with you. 

You breathed lightly as if you were sleeping.

“Did you get your self drugged?” he asked quietly. 

Your non beating heart would've jumped if it was alive at the insinuation. 

You felt him move closer and move his arm over the back of the seat. His other hand was on your knee.

Suddenly he was closer to your face, your ear. “Hey. Hey are you awake?” he whispered. His hand began to caress up your thigh.

A dirty cop! You felt yourself begin to get wet. 

“You’re in safe hands sweetheart,” his lips murmured on your cheek. He moved his hand from your thigh. He grabbed your wrist and placed your hand on the hard chub underneath his jeans. 

“How’s that feel?” He forced your hand to continue to rub him. “Slutty little bitch on the streets, huh?” he croaked.

Your teeth pricked the inside of your cheek. Fuck it, you couldn’t hold out any more.

“It feels like I need to make you mine,” you opened your eyes and stared back at him completely lucid. Your lips drew back over the sharp canines in a lovely, perfect smile.

----

....to be continued?

[lu-lus-dicks]

@huskers-bar x @nunalastor chapter 4

Tags: enemies to lovers, angst?, eventual fluff, yearning?, soft huskers-bar, both mods are separate people, no beta we die like i do, minor character death, ooc, au: hellaverse (hazbin hotel), nunalastor is head of the marketing department, jealousy?, huskers-bar is an employee at voxtek, lulu as a villain, huskers-bar is a liar, secret dating?

chapter: 4/? / chapter Word count: 2,484 / total word count: 7,426

nunalastor as a single entity is nunalastor, traumatized mod dickmaster and cursed mod nun. and huskers-bar just husk/huskers. babygirl anon will be babygirl anon. I will be lulu. Angie will be angie but is meant to be read as angel dust.

A/N: pure lore this chapter. Almost none of the funny :( sorry. i've decided that as an apology for not being active at all today, the entirety of the next chapter is just going to be nunalastor fucking. I will also stop talking about plot from now on, cuz i'm just bullshitting my way through at this point.

"Hi" Lulu greeted. The room fell into an awkward silence, and the air thickened with palpable tension. Lulu locked his gaze with Alastor's, refusing to look away. The seconds stretched into minutes, elongating the unspoken battle of wills and determination, a staring contest neither wanted to lose, although Lulu was undeniably unaware of the game and was just being a menace.

"how may I assist you today?" Alastor finally spoke, his voice punctuated by a forced smile that failed to reach his eyes. The constant staring wasn't enough to get him to blink even once, but the mundane nature of just staring at Lulu was more than reason enough for Alastor to interject their five extremely long minutes of silence. Plus he didn't need the other members of the hotel to start asking questions. they were too persistent anyway.

Lulu snapped out of his reverie, jolted back to reality by Alastor's question. He rummaged through his bag, shuffling items aside in search of something specific, his actions conveying a sense of excitement. Ugh, he could've been a living vibrator with how jarring the immediate mood shift was. "Ah, right," He mumbled, his attention divided between the bag and Alastor. "I'm here to try and convince you to help me... Again."

Alastor let an exasperated sigh slip, pinching the bridge of his nose. This had been the third time lulu approached him this week alone and this feral... whatever that thing was, wasn't giving up on it "we've already went over this lulu, I am not going to help you steal Lucifers blood"

Lulu pouted, letting out a saddened squeak, his hands immediately stopping their search for the list of reasons Alastor should let Lulu steal Lucifers blood "Not even for 75 souls? Really cute ones?" He bargained, shoulders slumping and posture generally turning a lot more depressed, just like the owner of those shoulders probably was.

"No." Alastor reiterated, "No amount of souls is going to cut it."

The very annoyed and pissed expression on lulus face was honestly disgusting. Lulu leaned in closer, as if the proximity would convince Alastor. oh how wrong he was.

"Dear, why don't you just stop with this nonsense?" Alastor said, the corners of his trademark fake smile twitching in irritation. He put his hands back behind him and stepped away. The more distance between this creature and him the more comfortable he felt.

"what if it was the entire west side of the pentagram?" Lulu offered, sort of as a last ditch attempt... for today at least. Lulu was not exactly sane enough to know when to quit.

"I highly doubt a creature such as yourself is going to be able to achieve such a thing" Alastor answered, mostly as a jab to Lulus pathetic self, but the idea of him gathering so many souls was an amusing one.

However, Lulu didn't think so. Lulus eyes lit up with mischief, immediately switching from that almost-scowl to a smirk even the devil wouldn't be able to mimic. He jumped from the realization, "so that is a maybe! progress"

Alastor shouldn't be surprised but he is. Why is Lulu so obsessed with lucifers blood? sure it tasted good but not that good. Alastor sighed, shaking his head in disbelief and spoke "if that was all you came here for than you're welcome to leave"

"yeah, okay-" Lulu cut himself off as soon as he noticed a sexy four armed hottie walking by the door. "woah! who's that sexy thing over there?"

"excuse me?" Angie turned his head at the directed voice at him. he looked left and right, as if to make sure it was really him that this random imp looking creature was talking to. Once he was sure there was no one else, he put on his trademark seductive smile "oh, are you one of my fans?"

"no, never seen you in my life. what's a beautiful thing like you doing here?" Lulu said casually, running up to Angie and circling around him. The concept of personal space must've been a heaven thing because Lulu was prodding at absolutely every part of Angie.

"oh, that's a first." Angie chuckled nervously as he watched Lulu welcome himself to his body. "well the names angie"

"the names lulu." Lulu answered in a heartbeat. He finally relented the assault and turned to Alastor, waving "Bye Alastor, I'll be stealing your bitches"

"what?"

~

"he's the most precious thing I have with me here at the hotel!" Angie said petting the pig in question. Little fat nuggets was very comfortably set in his lap and was napping.

"he is a cute pig, i'll admit." Lulu said, laughing along and staring at the adorable little creature. He tapped his fingers against the nearest surface, humming to himself. "hmm... say though, what is it that you actually desire? surely there's more to your existence than just taking care of fat nuggets?"

Angie slumped at that question, he didn't like being reminded of work, especially not when he's supposed to be relaxing. HE looked away, scratching the back of his head "oh, that's complicated"

"how so?" Lulu pried, crossing his legs, picking up his teacup and taking one sip. "It's tea time, and tea needs spillin"

Angie shrugged, reaching out one of his four arms to grab his own cup. he blew on it before taking a sip and sighing. "well, I kinda sold my soul to a blind prick" He began

"ah, gotcha" Lulu nodded, "go on, what's this prick like?" he pried, observing him with a keen eye.

That was all it took for Angie to start going off. "he's a real asshole, and not the sexy kind. he has no sense of personal space and is so insistent on always having me around. it's pathetic really-"

As Angie continued his rambling about how unbearable val was, Lulu listened attentively, observing him with a keen eye. Sensing Angie's frustration and dissatisfaction, Lulu formulated a surprising proposal. "What if I told you," Lulu interjected, his voice filled with intrigue, "that I could help you with that?"

"You're serious?" Angie asked, his voice tinged with both skepticism and caution, but he wasn't too against the idea, who would be?

Lulu nodded, a mischievous smile playing on his lips. "Absolutely. I have been trying to find a way to gain status you see, and what better way than to steal the porn overlords most prized bitch?"

Angie leaned forward, his attention fully captured by Lulu's proposition. "And what would you want in return? I've learned the hard way that nothing comes without a price. Not making that mistake again"

Lulu's smile widened as he raised his teacup to his lips, savoring another sip before placing it back on the table. "you're absolutely right. The thing is, the plan I have in mind isn't one I can carry out on my own. I need a helping hand. A partner in crime" Lulu said, letting the rest be left unspoken.

"i'm not helping you kill someone" Angie said, crossing his first set of arms over his chest and wrapping the second around fat nuggets almost like a shield.

"kill? nonsense" Lulu said, waving his hand in dismissal, as if even the mere idea of it was ridiculous. |I need you to help me collect souls. souls that will give me a name. nothing more. I can guarantee I will not be harming any soul that I collect"

That sounded very sketchy. On one hand, yes it made sense, collecting souls was how other overlords became overlords, but most overlords were also assholes. Angie couldn't let another one like valentino exist in the world. But the offer was too tempting... "how do I know you ain't lying?"

Lulu got up, extending a hand over to angie, pausing first in confusion. He was having trouble deciding which hand would need shaking "uh..." He shook it off. "I'll make a contract. In exchange for your assistance, I promise to free you from valentino grasp. In addition, I promise that I will not harm a single soul in the process"

Angie was sold. That was enough a reason to think this guy wasn't fucking around. "As you already know, I've already sold a part of my soul. no need for the deal. I'll help you"

"wonderful. I'll be discussing the plan with you two weeks before the next extermination"

~

Vox stared at Huskers, his crimson eyes narrowing as he processed the situation. Alastor, the infamous Radio Demon, had broken another of Vox's employees watches. His anger was palpable and causing static to appear between his antennas. "That fucking bastard?!"

Husk shifted uncomfortably under Vox's gaze. The pitch shift in Vox's voice was stupid but a little intimidating. "I'm sorry. I didn't get to talk to him, I went to this hotel after Angie offered, and I just stumbled upon him there"

Vox looked like he was about to blow a fuse but for a moment Vox's anger got replaced with a smirk. He paced back and forth across his office, his sharp claws clicking against the marble floor. The gears in his mind (literally) spun rapidly, taking into account every single opportunity he had now that husk was attending the hotel.

"Hmm," Vox muttered, his screen displaying a smirk worthy of the sexiest man on twitter. "Maybe this isn't such a bad idea. Someone to gather intel on my dear Alastor-I mean, that asshole!" He turned his attention back to Huskers, his gaze piercing. "It has failed once, but to be fair, that Pentious was a complete idiot." Vox paused, putting a finger up to his face. "Do they trust you?"

Husker hesitated, unsure how to respond. "Uh... not particularly," they admitted. Sure, they were in hell, but they were almost killed on the first day, that can't be a sign of trust.

Vox waved a dismissive hand in the air. "Unimportant. From now on, you are free from all other duties," He declared, his voice full of pure adulterated joy, one only a horny man like vox could make. "Your primary job will be to gather intel on that radio prick. I want to know his every move, his every plan. What he eats. Where he sleeps. What his favorite color is. What time he goes to sleep. What his hooves look like-"

"But sir—" Husker began, his voice tinged with hesitation.

Vox's eyes narrowed, his patience wearing thin. "Do not even try to negotiate with me on this," he warned, his voice laced with a dangerous edge. "I own your soul" He reminded.

Husker's shoulders slumped, defeated. "Okay," he muttered, his voice barely audible. It would be fine. He saw Alastor once the entire day anyway and that was when he needed to break his tech. He wouldn't even get the opportunities to gather intel anyway.

"good" Vox turned away, his mind already racing with schemes and plots. He had been blindsided by Alastor once, but this time would be different. He would have his dear Alastor tied up and begging for mercy!

~

"and that concludes today's exercises! you're free to go about your days as usual now!" Charlie clapped, signaling everyone's dismissal. She turned to huskers and called out before they could leave "Huskers, may I have a moment?"

"yes, your... highness?"

Charlie chuckled, shaking her head. "Just Charlie," she corrected, her warm smile putting Huskers slightly at ease. "You know we have rooms at the hotel for you to stay at, right? I think it would be beneficial for all of us if you were available as soon as we started, and if it's something you'd like?"

Huskers' shoulders slumped and they sighed. "I mean, it's not entirely up to me, Princess. I'd have to consult with my boss first," They explained. It wouldn't be everyday that Vox showed mercy.

Charlie's expression turned thoughtful, and she nodded understandingly. "Alright, we'll let you talk it out with him and hopefully we can get you here!"

Charlie's excitement died down quickly though, realizing that due to short staff (literally), they were out of rooms where people could actually survive. "Unfortunately, we only have one empty and clean room at the hotel right now, and it's up with our marketing staff."

Huskers eyes lit up. The marketing staff? That's Nunalastor!

"And they tend to get messy at nigh-"

"I'll do it!" they far too quickly accepted, not wanting to miss the opportunity. "I don't mind at all. I'd love to take the room! I'm sure nu-the marketing staff are lovely!" they chuckled nervously, making it way too obvious what their intentions were.

Charlie, bless her heart, either didn't notice or didn't mention it. Her eyes sparkled with joy. "Wow, such enthusiasm! See, I knew I was right about you!"

~

Alastor hummed to himself as he traveled up the stairs. He couldn't help but overhear huskers little interaction with charlie and he just couldn't let the opportunity for some chaos and fun pass. He approached the door to Dickmasters and Nuns room and knocked thrice. Some thumping could be heard on the other side before the door opened in front of him.

Dickmaster answered "yes?"

"greetings, cohorts" Alastor greeted with that charming smile of his. Both Nun and Dickmaster collectively rolled their eyes.

"do you mind? we're in the middle of a fucking..." Dickmaster trailed off.

"we are not fucking, they're just too dumb to finish that sentence" Nun shouted from behind the room. The fact that they were sprawled across the bed in nothing but a shirt on wasn't helping the situation.

Alastor chose to not comment on it. He didn't care. His eyes gleamed with mischief as he began to speak "I have a favor. you see this new resident of ours is here to make my life miserable. I can hear vox's pathetic begging almost from across the pentagram, and they're a spy of his. I'm sure of it, however I don't view them as a threat"

Dickmaster raised a brow, unamused. "uhm, congrats? what's that gotta do with us?"

Alastor chuckled, leaning in font of them, hands resting on his cane. "oh, nothing much. I simply ask that you make their life miserable with your charming little quirks"

Nun and Dickmaster exchanged glances, contemplating Alastor's request. It wouldn't be hard and could prove to be quite entertaining. Plus, Nun wanted to stick it to that guy for some reason. After a brief silence, they smirked and nodded. "oh, will do at some point. What's in it for us though?"

"Entertainment"

"that's hardly a fair deal"

"By the looks of things, that isn't going to stop you." Alastor doesn't wait for a response and starts to melt away into his shadow. "they'll be staying in the room across from you." is the words he left with.

"fuck that guy with his own cane, seriously"

[beansidhebumbling]

An Examination of Cruelty and Other Such Failings

Nezriel Exes

Her dress was still crumpled where it had been thrown haphazardly the night before, the red silk a symbol of a passion that had burned in the wee hours of the morning with little regard for any sanctity her Mama upheld in Nesta once.

Before.

Before him. Before touches too hot, eyes too knowing, teeth too sharp; Before Nesta started to worship a different god, a crueller one, maybe. All gods were cruel but Azriel... he was a lesson in the what happened when one cared more about the sum than the parts; the breathing, human parts.

Her own breathing felt painful now, the beginning of a stress headache burning at her eyes and pulling tight on her skull. Az. No. Azriel. Not Az anymore, not to her, breathed deeply, steadily, like an innocent. Nesta snorted to herself, a liar even in his sleep.

How very him.

***

The light seeped in through gauzy, white curtains, Mor’s hand no doubt, and Nesta was stricken by how his face, beautiful in the age it was beginning to show, in crepey lines and hollowness, was softened by the dappled, yellow light. Maybe not all age she noted, on a closer look, comforted that her examination would remain a solitary pursuit by the metronomic movement of his chest. The purple shadows pressed into his eyelids, his naturally chiselled face looked just the wrong side of gaunt..

this was not quite the face she loved.

***

She was under no illusion that she had changed since they parted. An argument, a fracturing, a break-up. Words too small for a hurt so big. So explosive, and bitter, and brutal. Her frame softened and wider by the Gilmore Girls diet she’d been following, by the stress that’d been mounting. It was hard to mind herself the way he had.

Hard when three square meals had never been on a list short enough to receive attention, let alone fruit collected from markets in hemp net bags, prime rib-eye wrapped in grease paper, endless variations of nut butters organised on his ridiculous, Italian marble condiment station. Meals he plied her with, spoiled her with, until she allowed herself to grow comfortable with Az Azriel wanting to mind her in ways she could not, did not herself.

Stupid, stupid Nesta.

She should have known better. Comfort was yet another luxury she couldn't afford.

She never felt comfortable anymore.

***

He had not looked different in the dim hazy light of the bar. He had looked as well-maintained, manicured, and handsome as was expected when you had an extensive home gym, Peloton a given, and La Mer hand cream on tap. While his eyes burned from across the bar, the patrons gathered to celebrate Feyre and Cassian’s engagement utterly failed in their roles as buffers, he had looked as he always did.

Intense, consuming, heart-breakingly beautiful.

Even as some horrid part of herself noted with disdain that her thighs chafed against each other, rubbing in softness, in a way they hadn’t in the time before. That the women he’d surely slept with after she walked, probably blonde, probably charming, probably utterly lovely, would never dare to allow such a thing.

His hunger for her had thickened the air around her, had made her think of the unread texts sitting too heavy and tempting, weighing down her inbox, that had led to her blocking his number. Of the new Instagram account he had made. The man who was invisible to social media for so long, who had waxed lyrical to her time and time again of the black hole of energy it was made of. The man who huffed a laugh into her drying hair as she had pushed back,

‘Yeah, yeah, old man. Now let me scroll and fall into this hole in peace’.

The man who was now first to like any photo she was tagged in on Elaine’s, Eris's, even Rhysand’s account.

His request to follow her remained unanswered.

Even gods could change apparently.

Even gods could lose.

***

Her eyes caught the time on his digital clock, bringing her back to herself again. The red numbers flashed a warning,

Move...

Move.

Move!

Avoid confrontation.

Azriel had always risen before seven, one of the things bald men with podcasts attributed his success to. She couldn’t afford to stay any longer in reverie, to let him coax her back. Especially when no small part of her craved it. 

She turned away from him and his pretty, peaceful face, to wriggle her way out from the tanned arm laying on her hip, gripping at her, even through the thick coverlet. While doing the overly familiar dance of collecting strewn underwear, wriggling her way into the tight red slip, she looked at him and her chest tightened just a bit more. Because there he lay, half of a once-great love, vulnerable and searching, seeking her across the expanse of the mattress.

This was why she couldn’t even steal his shirt, an infinitely more comfortable walk of shame look. She couldn’t because she knew he’d take any reason to talk to her, to knock on her door. She couldn’t hand him a legitimate invitation in the form of a crisp Brioni shirt.

 She wasted no time brushing her teeth, with her toothbrush found in the sleek, mirrored cabinet. Her pink toothbrush still kept like some sad, weird shrine to their intimacy. She knew she'll dwell on that later.

She made her way to the door of his room, steps light and well-versed in their terrain, leather jacket thrown over her shoulders, purse, and thrifted, white, slingbacks in hand when the sound of his breathing changed.

Fuck.

***

She stilled on instinct, heart dancing, as he pushed himself upright in a way that was so fast it was almost comical if his dark eyes didn’t arrest on her, narrowing as he caught her red-handed in her escape.

Heart beating too fast, mind moving too slow she went to speak a few times before,

‘Sorry, didn't want to wake you. Keep our mistakes private, right?'

She was aiming for light but the awkward laugh at the end was undercut by how her voice cracked mid-sentence.

Was that hurt that flashed on his face before it was cold and shuttered once more?

He was out of the bed, brazen in his nakedness and upon her before she’d finished, his big hands, cupping her face, and a voice so rich, still gravelly from sleep, retorted,

‘Oh Nesta, not a fucking chance sweetheart. If you think you’re leaving this room after last night, after a mistake,’

the last two words sharpened and thrown back at her like arrows,

'you are being as delusional as I was five months ago. I was wrong. I was wrong to let you go. And believe me I've atoned for my sins, but I will not stand for you calling this a mistake. I won't watch you sneak away from a room we should share.'

Those brown eyes were deep pools of sincerity and regret. Gods repented in this strange, new world it seemed.

The next words were spoken so softly, almost to himself,

‘I can't. I can't. If you want to hurt me, at least let me hear your voice as you do so, let me look on your face as you break my heart once more. Stay with me and do as you will. I can tolerate anything but your absence.'

Shaking his head as if to refocus, he smiled, a pitiful, broken, best attempt at one, with eyes that roamed her face, gorging on all they had missed, before saying,

‘Come back Nes.'

'I thought I was a distraction.'

She sniped.

She remembered still.

He winced.

There, she thought, first blood in a new fight. Though God knew they'd spilled plenty here before.

***

The pulse of arousal that pierced her was sharp and strong and she hated that this was the most alive she’d felt in months. That she yearned for this fight, has been since she talked herself into approaching the bar last night, lying to herself that all she was doing was fulfilling a craving for bottom shelf vodka and coke.

She'd been to enough therapy since to know she was on shaky ground. She was envisioning the frenzied fighting and fucking to come, a sickening thrilling deja vu, when he kneeled.

Legs buckled like a broken puppet.

A script change.

Tears streamed from eyes filled with such anguish she felt her own swell in response as Azriel cried,

'Never a distraction. I was stupid, a liar and a fool. I kept telling myself that, telling you, because the truth terrified me. You were, are, and always will be everything to me.'

Tugging at his curly fringe, a nervous habit of his, he continued.

'I thought if I believed that, that you were a distraction, I'd find a way to survive even if you left me. Instead it drove you to walk and I found out none of it mattered. There were times in your presence I thought heaven might exist. Your absence, however, confirmed hell is real and it lives in the empty space you once filled beside me.'

Her skin felt like a live wire. Girls like Nesta Archeron didn't get love confessions from exes, they got bad credit and a therapy bill.

Or they had until now anyways.

'How do I know you've changed? All the time you made me feel full never compensated for what you took when you hid me from your friends, when you called me a...'

The word was too hard to say.

She resorted to examining the crown molding as Azriel waited a beat then answered carefully.

'You can't. I'm asking you to trust me knowing I have no right to. I love you Nesta. This is all too late. I know that. Believe me. I'm going to win you back. I swear it. You leave today and I'll find a way tomorrow or the next day. I had sworn to leave you be but looking at you now, I know you feel it too. I just hope someday you'll see it as a blessing too.'

***

When she leaves she feels his eyes following her to the taxi.

In the coming weeks he sends gifts - antique books, red dahlias, mix tapes of songs he thinks she'll like.

When she gets a text from a new number she does not block it.

When she visits next time, she brings her suitcase with her.

Because she understands.

The only craving she has ever had was for him.

As has been the case since she first started working for him, they were drawn together, they both knew this on some level.

That they were unbreakably bound to each other by gods so cruel.

Maybe crueller than him.

Maybe crueller than her.

Somehow.

[healthyveganfood-and-desserts]

PSA:

Vitamin C!!!

Did you know that ascorbic acid is actually synthetic vitamin C? What’s more, it is usually GMO vitamin C, which means it was derived from GMO corn.

If you are learning this for the first time, it can be a rather shocking realization as almost all vitamin C supplements on the market use ascorbic acid.

Even more disturbing, ascorbic acid is frequently marketed as natural vitamin C and added to organic foods as a natural preservative. Truly natural forms of vitamin C and synthetic ascorbic acid seem to be used interchangeably.

NEARLY ALL juices and fruit products are loaded up with ascorbic acid, even many organic, healthfood store versions. It seems that if a product is labeled “high in Vitamin C”, consumers buy more of it.

A lot of folks are being fooled by these misleading semantics. There is a growing body of evidence that those consuming high doses of ascorbic acid should have reason to worry.

Three Studies Suggest Caution with High Dose Ascorbic Acid

The Winter 2009 edition of Wise Traditions cites 3 studies which give pause about large doses of vitamin C. The first study (from the Jun 15, 2001 issue of Science) showed that “synthetic vitamin C may contribute to the formation of genotoxins that can lead to cancer”.

A second study presented to the American Heart Association showed a link between consumption of only 500mg of vitamin C per day and a greater propensity toward thickening of the arteries (Los Angeles Times, March 3, 2000).

Even more recently, athletes taking 1000mg of vitamin C per day showed reduced endurance capacity from interference with antioxidant enzymes (American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, Jan 2008).

This information should give pause to anyone who is actively taking synthetic vitamin C supplements such as those Emergen-C packets that are available everywhere, from pharmacies and health food stores to even gas stations!

Supplements like these are NOT boosting immunity and are NOT good for you!

Synthetic vitamins such as ascorbic acid act more like drugs in the body rather than whole food nutrients with all the available co-factors. Taking any synthetic vitamin can cause imbalances in the body and should be avoided.

Another worrisome and popular trend is the recommendation of some alternative health professionals to do a “vitamin C flush” during illness. This therapy (if you can call it that) calls for large doses of ascorbic acid until the onset of diarrhea. This approach to regaining wellness has never made any sense to me. Now, with more studies indicating the danger of high doses of vitamin C, caution seems well founded.

Fan of Linus Pauling? Consider This ….

If you are a fan of Linus Pauling who popularized the notion of huge doses of Vitamin C for the common cold in the 1970’s, consider this. GMO Vitamin C did not exist when Pauling was conducting his studies. GMO derived Vitamin C is what most people are unwittingly taking today!

What’s more, the studies indicating the danger of high doses of vitamin C over long periods of time had not been done yet. They were conducted long after Pauling died in 1994.

What about High Dose, Intravenous Ascorbic Acid?

What about high dose, intravenous ascorbic acid for the very ill? Note that the vitamin C for IV use is almost always derived from GMO corn as well as being extremely high dose and synthetic ascorbic acid only.

.

[techmomma]

Y'all. If you are making meat stews/soups of any kind, I absolutely cannot recommend ENOUGH adding in some of the bone marrow. Usually from the same animal as whatever the main meat is but if you only care about taste and not looks then yeah, mix and match.

Beef stew, with a couple of marrow bones thrown in to stew for a while, taking them out after the marrow's dissolved out of the middle? Fucks hard.

Chicken soups would probably be a little more difficult just because chicken bones and how much smaller they are, but hey, that's what making bone broth is for. Eat a chicken or turkey roast, keep the bones, snap the big bones, and then gently boil for many hours until the bones straight up crumble in your fingers.

Beef marrow bones also tend to be pretty cheap. I got like 6 cuts for a couple bucks (putting three cuts in a family-sized pot of stew), and they freeze phenomenally. I could probably get like a pound of beef marrow bones for maybe $10 and freeze them for a couple years. Could make a family-sized pot of soup at least once a month for over a year.

The gelatin also naturally helps thicken up your stews/soups. No cornflower or starch needed. For beef, marrow bones also absolutely help make the flavor more intense--so you can put in less meat without sacrificing flavor! Steph helpin you save money babyyyyy

If the idea of eating like, a glob of marrow grosses you out, I promise that if you stew the marrow bones for at least a couple hours, the marrow will dissolve ENTIRELY throughout your soup. There will be no globs, I promise.

Is it kinda fatty? Yeah. Does it taste amazing? Fuck yeah. And it tastes amazing, for dirt cheap.

In grocery markets, marrow bones will typically be in either the frozen meat section, or in the Cheap/Tripe section, where you find things like gizzards and tongue and oxtails. While many grocery markets have "butchers," they don't usually have spare bones where they do the meat cutting, not at larger grocery market chains anyway.

If you know a butcher, sometimes they will just give you bones for cheap, sometimes free, because they ain't gonna be able to do anything with them! If I recall, they'll come whole, but you can totally ask them to cut the bones into smaller pieces for you.

Times is tough right now, and so the Depression-era mother of nine who inhabits my body has ghost-written this to help you all save money AND still get the macro and micronutrients your bodies need! Enjoy!

[ghostonly]

Hello everyone, today i bring you:

Things Americans don't realize they have the shittiest version of

or

Things the Swiss Do Better

At the top of the list, brought to you straight from the bath,

Bathtubs

Are you a full sized adult who longs for the days of childhood when they could lie down in a bathtub and get fully submerged? Do you wish you could stretch your legs out instead of bending them in half and neglecting your ever-coldening knees?

The solution is easy! Go literally anywhere else!

Okay I admit I have actually no idea how most other countries do this; I'm in Switzerland right now staying with my partner. The tubs here are huge. Upon describing the ones I'm used to, my partner was absolutely horrified, so I have to assume this is the norm, because it seems much more likely that most places in the world make adult sized tubs than sad little baby sized ones like the US.

This thing is like 20ish inches deep. When I put my elbow to the bottom, my fingertips are only about an inch higher than the edge. I'm 5'7 and can stretch my full height, the top of my head only sticking a few inches above the edge on the sloped end. This thing makes me feel so short. I'm 250lbs and can rotate fully. None of my torso touches the sides unless you count my upper arms, which don't if I pull them tighter against me. I haven't had a bath like this since I was 6.

Yogurt

I spent my entire life thinking I hated yogurt. It turns out yogurt is actually delicious! ... If it's not American. That sad, overly sweetened, gelatinous, low fat nonsense we've been eating is an affront to good yogurt everywhere (but especially in Switzerland.)

Decent yogurt... It tastes less sugary, yet sweeter - the difference between a gas station donut and a piece of fruit you just picked off a tree. Don't get me wrong, I love a good gas station donut... Just not as much as literally anything here.

I was excited to share American donuts with my partner since donuts here suck, but the problem is that, while US donuts are better than any donut here, they are significantly worse than literally any other dessert here. I got here/brought them two weeks before Christmas. Sadly, they ended up getting composted. There was simply too much better shit to eat.

I digress. The yogurt has a natural sweetness, it's not as thick, which you might think is a bad thing until you realize that the thickness of American yogurt is almost definitely achieved with some kind of thickening agent to make up for the complete lack of creaminess. The yogurt here is thinner but more creamy. It's so nice that I've gone from adamant yogurt hater to eating one all but two mornings since I've gotten here.

Toilet paper

Okay this is a weird one and, again, I admit it could just be a gap in my experience, bit I have lived on the west coast, in the midwest, and in the south of the US, with many different people with many different preferences and I have yet to find toilet paper like this.

The toilet paper here does not have squares. The squares are elongated (rectangles). It's like two ply and it's not soft, but it is thick and firm. The US toilet paper market is so good about pushing a narrative about toilet paper needing to be soft to spare your asshole that we have completely fallen for a scheme that ensures we must use more toilet paper and end up less clean in the end.

Soft, thick toilet paper may feel nicer but you end up having to wipe more because it's never as good at staying together as they claim it is. They can do as many 'drag tests' as they want to show how it stays together, but a flat surface and a hairy ass are not the same thing. Anyway tmi but I use like half as much toilet paper now and never have anything getting left behind.

Doorknobs (THEY DON'T HAVE THEM)

That is to say, doors have handles here. Those round fuckers you twist are nowhere in sight. You might think this is a minute difference that isn't important but you would be wrong. Hands full? Just lean your elbow on the handle. Bam, door is open. Knobs might have been a stylistic marvel in the design world at some point but, practically, they're a fucking nightmare.

Chocolate

Okay I know you've heard this one before but it's usually Europeans scoffing at American chocolate so I'm giving you the American take which is that they're completely right to be scoffing at American chocolate.

I brought a bunch of expensive-ish, Dove mint chocolates with me to share with my partner. The fact aside that he doesn't like mint chocolate apparently, I ate one a couple weeks after getting here(I didn't before then because I was too busy horfing down Swiss chocolates) and it was like their goodness had just fucking disintegrated. I was so disappointed. I had been shoveling these in just weeks before coming here because they were impossibly good and so smooth and luxurious and now I have this big fucking canister of disappointment chocolate. It's not bad... But considering this is some of the better mainstream chocolate in America, that's a devastating downgrade in status.

Ferrero Rocher is extremely common here (it's Italian in origin, just south of Switzerland). I keep feeling like I'm the only one eating it and I finally asked my partner if anyone else is going to eat it because I don't want to eat all the fancy chocolates and he said, "It's not really exciting to us."

Hello??? This is the fanciest of mainstream chocolate in the US!!

The same goes for Lindt Lindor truffles, which are Swiss. They're so accessible here they're not even fancy, they're just average chocolates.

Don't even get me fucking started on the chocolate from the confectionary that we bought when I first got here. We got about eight pieces of different flavors and have only just finished them because each time we had some, we each had one piece. They were so fucking divine that I couldn't eat the rest in one sitting because I was too busy ascending to another plane of existence. Don't get me wrong, we took our time because they're really expensive, but I'm telling you that was okay. One of them was so good that it completely satisfied my desire for chocolate. That's how insanely powerful these chocolates are.

Conclusion

All of the things I hated about America, while in America, have become just kind of baffling to think back on since coming here. Like, how is the US even like this? How is it that bad? It has its merits, but mainly in character and culture, not in quality of life. Anyway, of you ever have the sliver of a chance to go to Europe, absolutely do it, even if its just to visit. I haven't been this happy in my life. Yeah that's largely because I'm finally here with the love of my life after five years of online-only, but a not insignificant chunk is also the quality of life. I've been poor and/or just skirting homelessness for the last 7 years, so this is like whiplash. Anyway I just wanted to share these things. Mainly the tub and yogurt, those are just mind-blowing. I hope it was all a bit interesting to read.

[coffeedrgn87]

December 4th Drarry Drabble: "Christmas Tree"

Tags: FLUFF (the tooth-rotting kind), Holidays, Christmas Market, Surprise Ending, the usual bickering, idiots in love, Draco is totally besotted, and so am I

Even surrounded by thousands of Christmas lights and decorations that sparkled and twinkled, thickening shadows of dusk, Draco couldn’t take his eyes off Harry. The purple night sky, edged with pinks and oranges and streaks of clouds, was an impressive sight, but Draco was too busy marvelling at the childlike excitement in Harry’s gleaming green eyes. Next to him, the beauty of structures and trees silhouetted against the dark and lights spilling from the windows of homes paled. Even the chilly winter breeze that swept through the streets of Strasbourg and the chattering crowds didn’t manage to distract Draco.

Place Kléber was the heart of Strasbourg and in its centre stood a genuinely magnificent Christmas tree. It was at least a hundred feet tall, making it the tallest decorated natural Christmas tree in Europe. It and Strasbourg’s world-famous Christkindelsmärik was the reason he’d brought Harry here — that and Draco’s selfish need to spoil Harry with all the things he hadn’t gotten to enjoy as a child. Harry had insisted that he was happy to stay home and snuggle up underneath a mountain of blankets by the fire, but Draco hadn’t given in. He wanted Harry to see Strasbourg’s unique atmosphere, the city’s wintry beauty with its stunningly decorated streets and facades, the sparkling shop windows, and the irresistible scents of bredele biscuits, waffles, spice bread, cinnamon, and all kinds of sweets.

Merchants and craftsmen around them occupied small chalets, selling original gifts, unique decorations, and traditional treats. The entire place was magical, enchanted even, yet all of it had been created by Muggles. Naturally, Strasbourg’s Wizarding Quarter offered quite the spectacle, but a night stroll through the illuminated city of Christmas was far more attractive. That, and Harry’s genuine joy as he admired all the different handcrafted items, stuffed his face with food and vocalised his enthusiasm.

There was only one thing left to do. The timing was perfect, with a pitch-black night sky, a sparkling Christmas tree, and Christmas carols drifting through the frosty air. And so Draco stepped in front of Harry and took his gloves off. After stuffing them into one of the pockets of his heavy winter coat, he gently took Harry’s face in his hands, pressed their red noses together and kissed Harry softly and without the slightest bit of hurry. Someone applauded somewhere in the distance, and while it made him smile, Draco didn’t engage with the subtle distraction. Instead, he pulled back and offered Harry a lopsided grin and a shrug.

Harry chuckled and booped him on the nose.

Draco rolled his eyes, then wriggled his nose to stop it from itching.

It made Harry laugh.

“You trust me, yeah?” he asked.

Harry quietened, looked at him with a serious expression, and then his eyes twinkled with mischief.

“I let you drag me all the way to the Mainland to visit a Christmas market. You tell me.”

Draco gave Harry a pointed look.

“Not just a Christmas market, the Christmas market.”

“My sincere apologies, Lord Malfoy, of Christmas.”

Draco wished for a snowball to throw into Harry’s face, but rather than giving into the urge and summoning one, he ignored the cheeky dig and proceeded with his original plan…or tried to anyway.

“Close your eyes, Potter.”

Harry’s confusion was apparent, but after some hesitation, he shrugged and did as told.

“No peeking.”

“I don’t cheat; I’m not a Slytherin.”

Draco scoffed.

“Only because you asked the Sorting Hat to put you elsewhere.”

“Never should have told you that….”

“Too late. In any case, you can open your eyes again.”

Harry obeyed the command, and Draco watched him blink a few times to adjust his vision. Once it had cleared, Draco squeezed Harry’s hand, and when Harry’s gaze dropped, and he realised that Draco had gotten down on one knee in front of him, realisation began to dawn. At first, Harry gasped, but when Draco produced the simple white gold wedding band he’d chosen, Harry’s jaw dropped. The polished metal gleamed in the sparkling lights of Strasbourg’s impressive Christmas tree, and Harry visibly searched for the right words — he found none.

A whispered ‘Draco’ was all he managed to muster.

Draco smiled.

“Shush, this is my moment.”

Harry huffed a soft laugh.

“I don’t think there’s anything you could say to make this any clearer.”

Draco chuckled.

“Let me try, okay?”

Harry nodded.

Inhaling deeply, Draco braced himself for the one question he’d been meaning to ask Harry for the better part of the past year. For a moment, he was worried that he might stutter or that the words would refuse to leave his mouth, but when he parted his lips, the question fell from it with such ease that his heart skipped several beats, then played catch-up, making him feel all dizzy.

“Harry James Potter, will you marry me?”

Harry nodded first, then dropped to Draco’s level and attacked him with a wild kiss.

“Yes, yes, yes, fucking yes, a million times yes.”

Although Draco felt encapsulated in a private bubble, he was vaguely aware that his gesture and question had drawn some attention, and when he and Harry briefly stopped kissing, and he turned his head, he noticed that a circle of people had formed around them and that several people were clapping and cheering them on.

Flushing, Draco looked at Harry from under lowered lashes.

“We’ve drawn a crowd,” he murmured.

Harry looked around, and instead of suggesting that they flee the scene, he yelled his response to Draco’s earlier question into the crowd.

“I SAID YES, WE’RE GETTING MARRIED!!!”

The cheers quadrupled, and the clapping became almost deafening. Draco shook his head, but despite his beetroot-red face, he was squealing with excitement inside.

[chemanalystdata]

Maltodextrin Price | Prices | Pricing | News | Database | Chart | ChemAnalyst

 Maltodextrin is a widely used food additive derived from starches such as corn, rice, potato, or wheat. Its role in the food and beverage industry is significant due to its thickening, stabilizing, and sweetening properties, and as such, the dynamics of its market pricing are highly relevant. Over the past few years, maltodextrin prices have experienced variations driven by multiple factors, including raw material costs, global supply chains, and consumer demand trends.

A key driver of maltodextrin pricing is the availability and cost of starch sources. Since the majority of maltodextrin production is based on corn and other starches, any significant changes in these commodities' market conditions can ripple through the maltodextrin market. For instance, corn prices can be influenced by a range of factors such as crop yields, climate changes, geopolitical issues, and trade policies. The growing adoption of biofuels, which relies heavily on corn, can also exert upward pressure on maltodextrin prices when corn becomes more expensive. Such interconnections make it clear that maltodextrin price trends are often linked to broader agricultural market dynamics.

Get Real Time Prices for Maltodextrin: https://www.chemanalyst.com/Pricing-data/maltodextrin-1608Regional disparities in the production and supply of maltodextrin also contribute to pricing variations. Major producers in regions such as North America, Europe, and Asia maintain distinct market dynamics based on their local cost structures and regulatory environments. For example, North America benefits from a strong corn production base, which can lead to relatively lower production costs compared to regions where corn imports are more expensive. On the other hand, Europe's stricter regulations concerning genetically modified organisms (GMOs) can drive higher production costs for non-GMO maltodextrin, which may translate into higher prices for specific product grades in that market.

Maltodextrin’s applications span diverse industries, including food and beverage, pharmaceuticals, personal care, and agriculture. Its role as a versatile thickener and stabilizer, particularly in sports drinks, instant foods, and dietary supplements, continues to drive demand. Changes in consumer preferences and lifestyle trends, such as the growing popularity of health and wellness products, have further boosted the demand for clean-label and low-calorie products containing maltodextrin. As consumer demand shapes product innovation, producers are inclined to develop high-value maltodextrin products that can command premium pricing, adding another layer of complexity to overall market trends.

Energy prices and labor costs also significantly influence the cost of producing maltodextrin, given the energy-intensive nature of the manufacturing process. Variations in energy prices, including fuel, electricity, and transportation costs, can therefore affect the final pricing. The energy market’s volatility, driven by geopolitical tensions and policy changes, contributes to the instability in production costs. Furthermore, labor shortages and increased labor costs, as observed in certain regions post-pandemic, can add additional pressures on maltodextrin pricing.

In recent years, sustainability has become a focal point for manufacturers and consumers alike. The growing emphasis on environmentally friendly and sustainable production practices can influence maltodextrin prices. Companies are investing in greener technologies, more efficient processes, and sustainable sourcing of raw materials to meet consumer demand and comply with stringent regulatory frameworks. While these initiatives may lead to higher production costs initially, the long-term cost efficiencies and the market value associated with eco-friendly products could stabilize pricing over time. Moreover, companies adopting sustainable practices may find it easier to market and differentiate their products in a competitive market landscape, which can justify premium pricing.

Global trade dynamics, including tariffs, import/export restrictions, and free trade agreements, can significantly impact maltodextrin prices. For instance, increased tariffs on raw materials or finished maltodextrin products can lead to higher market prices, while favorable trade agreements can promote price stability. Trade tensions between major economies may also affect the market by disrupting supply chains or altering demand in specific regions. In this respect, producers must carefully monitor international trade policies to mitigate risks and optimize pricing strategies.

To further understand maltodextrin pricing trends, market participants are increasingly relying on technological advancements and data analytics. Real-time data, predictive analytics, and digital supply chain solutions allow for more accurate price forecasting and inventory management. By leveraging these tools, manufacturers and buyers can adapt to changing market conditions more effectively, reducing the impact of price volatility on their business operations. Furthermore, technology-driven innovations in maltodextrin production processes may also lead to cost reductions, contributing to potential price decreases in the long run.

The demand for maltodextrin is also shaped by macroeconomic factors, including inflation rates, currency fluctuations, and overall economic growth. Rising inflation can lead to increased production costs, which can then be passed on to consumers. Similarly, currency devaluation in key producing countries can make exports more attractive, potentially affecting global pricing. Economic growth in emerging markets can also drive demand, as higher disposable incomes lead to increased consumption of processed foods and beverages where maltodextrin is commonly used.

In conclusion, maltodextrin prices are influenced by a complex interplay of factors that include raw material costs, regional production dynamics, consumer trends, energy prices, sustainability initiatives, and global trade policies. The market’s complexity underscores the need for stakeholders to adopt flexible pricing strategies, leverage technological advancements, and remain adaptable to ever-changing market conditions. This approach will help ensure competitiveness and sustainability in the evolving global maltodextrin market.

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Citrus Pectin Market Demand Outlook: Growth Opportunities in Baking and Confectionery Industries

The citrus pectin market is on the rise, carving out a niche in the global food industry, particularly in baking and confectionery. Derived from the peels of citrus fruits such as oranges, lemons, and grapefruits, citrus pectin is increasingly favored as a versatile, natural ingredient. Known for its thickening, stabilizing, and gelling properties, citrus pectin is shaping up to be a key player for food producers, who are tapping into consumer demand for clean-label, plant-based ingredients.

This growth story for citrus pectin is largely driven by evolving consumer preferences. Health-conscious consumers are prioritizing ingredients that are not only plant-based but also offer added health benefits, and citrus pectin fits the bill perfectly. Beyond its functionality as a gelling agent, pectin also carries fiber, which is beneficial for digestion. This dual functionality positions citrus pectin as a high-demand product in industries that are increasingly looking to replace synthetic additives with natural alternatives.

In the baking industry, citrus pectin’s unique properties have made it indispensable for certain applications. Bakers are using it to improve the texture and shelf-life of goods without compromising on taste or quality. In particular, citrus pectin helps retain moisture, making it valuable in products like cakes, pastries, and gluten-free bread that can often suffer from dryness. Additionally, as gluten-free baking continues to grow in popularity, citrus pectin has gained traction as an ingredient that can mimic some of the structural benefits of gluten, giving gluten-free products a more appealing texture.

The confectionery industry is also leaning heavily into citrus pectin due to its natural gelling abilities. Unlike gelatin, which is animal-based, pectin offers a vegan-friendly option that appeals to a broader audience, particularly as the vegan and vegetarian movement expands globally. Citrus pectin is highly sought-after in the production of gummies, jams, and fruit snacks, where it enables manufacturers to create products with a satisfying, chewy texture without using animal-derived ingredients. For instance, gummy candies made with citrus pectin can achieve the desired consistency while meeting vegan labeling requirements, making them popular in health-oriented and ethical food markets.

Beyond consumer demands, regulatory trends are reinforcing the adoption of citrus pectin. Many regions, especially in North America and Europe, are implementing stricter regulations around food labeling and encouraging cleaner, more transparent ingredient lists. Citrus pectin, as a recognizable and minimally processed ingredient, aligns well with these regulatory shifts, giving it a competitive edge over synthetic thickeners and stabilizers.

Geographically, the demand for citrus pectin is soaring in North America, Europe, and Asia-Pacific. The North American market has seen significant growth due to rising consumer awareness of plant-based and clean-label ingredients. Meanwhile, Europe, known for its stringent food quality standards, has embraced citrus pectin as a natural additive, especially as health and environmental consciousness deepen across the continent. In Asia-Pacific, rapid urbanization and the growth of the middle class are fueling interest in premium and health-conscious food products, where natural ingredients like citrus pectin are highly valued.

However, the citrus pectin market is not without its challenges. The cost of raw materials, particularly citrus peels, can fluctuate depending on fruit production volumes, which are affected by seasonal variations and climate change. Additionally, as demand grows, manufacturers are likely to face pressure to ensure sustainable sourcing and environmentally friendly extraction processes.

Despite these challenges, the outlook for the citrus pectin market remains promising. Its role in meeting the demand for natural, plant-based ingredients positions it well for sustained growth in baking, confectionery, and other industries. As consumers continue to prioritize health, sustainability, and transparency, citrus pectin is set to become a staple ingredient, fulfilling both functional and ethical needs across the food industry. This demand is expected to propel the market forward, driving innovation and offering new opportunities for growth.

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"Agar-Agar Market to $6.2B by 2033, 5.0% CAGR"

Agar-Agar Market : Agar-agar, often referred to as “agar,” is a natural, plant-based gelling agent derived from red algae, making it a popular vegan alternative to gelatin. Known for its ability to thicken, set, and stabilize, agar-agar is widely used in culinary applications such as desserts, jellies, and custards. Unlike gelatin, agar-agar is free from animal products, making it ideal for vegan and vegetarian recipes. It also has a higher melting point, meaning it can hold its form at room temperature, giving it versatility in various dishes and climates.

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Beyond its culinary uses, agar-agar offers unique health benefits, as it is high in fiber and low in calories. It can aid in digestion, help with satiety, and is sometimes used in weight management plans. In addition to culinary and health applications, agar-agar is also used in scientific research, particularly in microbiology, due to its effectiveness in providing a stable medium for growing cultures. As more people seek plant-based ingredients with functional benefits, agar-agar is becoming a go-to choice in both cooking and wellness.

Related Link : Wheat Protein Market : https://linkewire.com/2024/10/31/wheat-protein-market-to-expand-from-3-5b-to-6-8b-by-2033-at-5-8-cagr/

#AgarAgar #VeganGelatin #PlantBased #RedAlgae #VeganDesserts #NaturalGellingAgent #CrueltyFree #FiberRich #LowCalorie #HealthyCooking #PlantBasedIngredients #GelatinAlternative #VeganBaking #FunctionalFood #EcoFriendlyCooking

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Modified Starch Market Product Overview, Research, Share by Types and Region till 2030

The global modified starch market reached a value of USD 11.8 billion in 2021 and is projected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 5.3% from 2022 to 2030. This growth is fueled primarily by the increasing global population, which in turn drives demand for processed and convenience foods. Modified starch is a valuable ingredient in ready-to-eat food products because it improves texture, stability, and shelf life. As the demand for processed foods continues to rise, the modified starch market is anticipated to see significant growth in the coming years.

The COVID-19 pandemic affected the modified starch market both positively and negatively. During the pandemic, consumers stocked up on processed and packaged foods with longer shelf lives, resulting in increased demand for modified starch. However, the widespread closure of restaurants and food service outlets, coupled with disruptions in the global food and beverage supply chain due to lockdowns, posed challenges for the market. As supply chains stabilize and food service establishments resume operations, the modified starch market is expected to return to pre-COVID levels, with steady demand from both consumers and foodservice sectors.

Gather more insights about the market drivers, restrains and growth of the Modified Starch Market

In terms of regional consumption, convenience foods are especially popular in North America and Europe. Rapid lifestyle changes, including increasingly busy schedules and smaller households, have reduced the time available for home cooking, increasing the demand for convenient, ready-to-eat food options. Additionally, globalization has introduced new eating habits worldwide, notably in Asian markets, where demand for convenience foods is rising, further boosting the need for modified starch in these regions.

Modified starch is used across a wide range of industries beyond food, including papermaking, cosmetics, personal care, and textiles, due to its versatility and beneficial properties. In personal care and cosmetics, modified starch serves as a multi-functional additive. With the growing consumer preference for natural and organic products, cosmetic manufacturers are increasingly incorporating organic ingredients, such as modified starch, to meet demand for eco-friendly and sustainable products, thereby driving further growth in this sector.

End-use Segmentation Insights:

In 2021, the food and beverage sector held the largest share of modified starch market revenue, accounting for over 45.0%. This sector is expected to continue leading the market throughout the forecast period. Modified starches are used in food and beverage products as effective flavor carriers and as thickeners to add a smooth texture to items like coffee, slushies, and smoothies. In baking applications, modified starch improves product quality in items like pasta, soups, and mayonnaise. Additionally, modified starch aids in emulsifying, making it a crucial ingredient in products containing flavored oils across various industries.

The paper segment was valued at USD 2.5 billion in 2021. After essential materials like fiber, water, and fillers, modified starch is among the most used ingredients in paper manufacturing. In the papermaking process, starch contributes to strength, smoothness, and print quality, enhancing the paper's functionality. Paper mills use starches derived from sources like waxy maize, regular corn, tapioca, wheat, and potato to improve the structural integrity and smoothness of paper, making it more suitable for writing and printing. Starch also serves as a binder in paper coatings, enhancing the paper’s firmness, whiteness, and printing characteristics, all of which are important in producing high-quality paper products.

In summary, the modified starch market is poised for steady growth as it supports a range of industries. Driven by an increasing population, rising demand for convenience foods, and the versatility of modified starch applications, the market will likely see continued expansion in sectors ranging from food and beverages to cosmetics, personal care, and papermaking.

Order a free sample PDF of the Modified Starch Market Intelligence Study, published by Grand View Research.

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Modified Starch Industry Product Overview, Research, Share by Types and Region till 2030

The global modified starch market reached a value of USD 11.8 billion in 2021 and is projected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 5.3% from 2022 to 2030. This growth is fueled primarily by the increasing global population, which in turn drives demand for processed and convenience foods. Modified starch is a valuable ingredient in ready-to-eat food products because it improves texture, stability, and shelf life. As the demand for processed foods continues to rise, the modified starch market is anticipated to see significant growth in the coming years.

The COVID-19 pandemic affected the modified starch market both positively and negatively. During the pandemic, consumers stocked up on processed and packaged foods with longer shelf lives, resulting in increased demand for modified starch. However, the widespread closure of restaurants and food service outlets, coupled with disruptions in the global food and beverage supply chain due to lockdowns, posed challenges for the market. As supply chains stabilize and food service establishments resume operations, the modified starch market is expected to return to pre-COVID levels, with steady demand from both consumers and foodservice sectors.

Gather more insights about the market drivers, restrains and growth of the Modified Starch Market

In terms of regional consumption, convenience foods are especially popular in North America and Europe. Rapid lifestyle changes, including increasingly busy schedules and smaller households, have reduced the time available for home cooking, increasing the demand for convenient, ready-to-eat food options. Additionally, globalization has introduced new eating habits worldwide, notably in Asian markets, where demand for convenience foods is rising, further boosting the need for modified starch in these regions.

Modified starch is used across a wide range of industries beyond food, including papermaking, cosmetics, personal care, and textiles, due to its versatility and beneficial properties. In personal care and cosmetics, modified starch serves as a multi-functional additive. With the growing consumer preference for natural and organic products, cosmetic manufacturers are increasingly incorporating organic ingredients, such as modified starch, to meet demand for eco-friendly and sustainable products, thereby driving further growth in this sector.

End-use Segmentation Insights:

In 2021, the food and beverage sector held the largest share of modified starch market revenue, accounting for over 45.0%. This sector is expected to continue leading the market throughout the forecast period. Modified starches are used in food and beverage products as effective flavor carriers and as thickeners to add a smooth texture to items like coffee, slushies, and smoothies. In baking applications, modified starch improves product quality in items like pasta, soups, and mayonnaise. Additionally, modified starch aids in emulsifying, making it a crucial ingredient in products containing flavored oils across various industries.

The paper segment was valued at USD 2.5 billion in 2021. After essential materials like fiber, water, and fillers, modified starch is among the most used ingredients in paper manufacturing. In the papermaking process, starch contributes to strength, smoothness, and print quality, enhancing the paper's functionality. Paper mills use starches derived from sources like waxy maize, regular corn, tapioca, wheat, and potato to improve the structural integrity and smoothness of paper, making it more suitable for writing and printing. Starch also serves as a binder in paper coatings, enhancing the paper’s firmness, whiteness, and printing characteristics, all of which are important in producing high-quality paper products.

In summary, the modified starch market is poised for steady growth as it supports a range of industries. Driven by an increasing population, rising demand for convenience foods, and the versatility of modified starch applications, the market will likely see continued expansion in sectors ranging from food and beverages to cosmetics, personal care, and papermaking.

Order a free sample PDF of the Modified Starch Market Intelligence Study, published by Grand View Research.

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Guar Gum Market - Forecast(2024 - 2030)

Guar Gum Market Overview:

Guar Gum Market Size is forecast to reach $2521.2 Million by 2030, at a CAGR of 7.70% during forecast period 2024-2030.Increasing import value of guar gum across the world is elevating the demand and preference for guar gum. Import value of “Thickeners and mucilages derived from guar seeds” is recorded as $1.08m in 2018, experienced a 14% annual growth in import value during 2024-2030. IndustryARC’s latest market research report states that the global guar gum market was valued at $790m in 2018 and is estimated to propel with a healthy CAGR of 7.40% throughout the foreseen period 2024-2030.

North America region occupied a domineering share of 52% in the global guar gum market as of 2018. U.S. is the largest importer of mucilages and thickeners, derived from locust beans, and guar seeds in 2018. It has recorded an import value of $435,573 in 2018, and experienced a 3% annual growth in the import value from 2017 to 2018. In addition to this, U.S. has also established itself as a leading country with a 40.5% share in the worldwide guar gum imports. These factors altogether add value to the North America share in the global gum market.

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Guar Gum Market Outlook:

Guar gum is a galactomannan polysaccharide which has been taken out from guar beans. Guar gum fibers and additives offer improved thickening and binding abilities to the food products and gaining traction of recurring and loyal customers who come back for more products. Thus, the demand for Eco-friendly organic guar gum is increasing in various countries. This product's trade process usually take place in two major forms such as guar gum powder and guar gum splits.  

Demand for guar gum continues to rise in the crude oil industry. As, it is a very important aid in the oil well drilling. Additionally it is extremely useful in oil well stimulation, oil well fracturing and mud drilling. Underground natural gas reservoirs are treated through hydraulic fracturing process in which a mixture of guar gum and water-based fracturing fluids has to be pumped out. Growing demand for guar gum by the fracturing fluids is gaining traction of the guar gum exporters.

Guar Gum Market Growth Drivers:

· Food Industry

Guar gum powder is widely utilized in the preparation of gluten-free pastries, noodles, jams, vegan food and ice cream. This powder has a wide variety of applications in salad dressings, soups, and sauces to control the thickness level and to provide smooth texture to the food. As it is the most effective natural thickener used in the food. Guar gum powder is the most potent agent for perfect baking. It also preferred as an additive in the food industry. In addition to this, guar gum is used in the vegan food because it act as a vegan friendly gelatin alternative and helpful in thickening the texture of a liquid. 

· Petroleum Industry

Guar gum and its derivatives have a larger scope of expansion through wide range of applications in the petroleum industry. Because they were used as elements in numerous formulations which includes corrosion inhibition, enhanced oil recovery, fracturing fluids, and viscosity improvers.

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Guar Gum Market Trend

· Oil & Gas Industry

Guar gum powder is dynamically ideal solution for oil and gas recovery from oceans, due to its properties such as high viscosity, nonionic nature and others. Guar gum is used to control water and fluid loss, provide cooling and lubrication to drill bits, act as a shale inhibitor and solids carrier as well. Therefore, these multifunctions of guar gum are increasing its growth in oil and well drilling.

Guar Gum Market Key Players Perspective –

Some of the major guar gum market share players evolving in the global guar gum market are noted as Hindustan Gum & Chemicals Ltd., Jai Bharat Gum and Chemicals Ltd, Shree Ram Industries, rama gum industries limited, Tiku Ram Gum & Chemicals Pvt. Ltd., Dabur India Ltd., Guangrao Liuhe Chemicals Co. Ltd., Sarda Gums and Chemicals, Global Gums & Chemicals Pvt. Ltd., Ingredion Incorporated, and Supreme Gums Pvt. Ltd.

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Guar Gum Market Research Scope:

The base year of the study is 2018, with forecast done up to 2025. The study presents a thorough analysis of the competitive landscape, taking into account the market shares of the leading companies. It also provides information on unit shipments. These provide the key market participants with the necessary business intelligence and help them understand the future of the guar gum market. The assessment includes the forecast, an overview of the competitive structure, the market shares of the competitors, as well as the market trends, market demands, market drivers, market challenges, and product analysis. The market drivers and restraints have been assessed to fathom their impact over the forecast period. This report further identifies the key opportunities for growth while also detailing the key challenges and possible threats. The guar gum market research report also analyses the application of the guar gum in various industries such as food & beverages, pharmaceuticals and others.  

Guar Gum Market Report: Industry Coverage

This report also documents the guar gum market based on functions that includes thickening, gelling agent, stabilizing, fat replacer, emulsification and preservative functions.

The guar gum market report also analyzes the major geographic regions as well as the major countries in these regions. The regions and countries covered in the study include:

North America: The U.S., Canada, Mexico

South America: Brazil, Venezuela, Argentina, Ecuador, Peru, Colombia, Costa Rica

Europe: The U.K., Germany, Italy, France, the Netherlands, Belgium, Spain, Denmark

APAC: China, Japan, Australia, South Korea, India, Taiwan, Malaysia, Hong Kong

Middle East and Africa: Israel, South Africa, Saudi Arabia

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Key Market Players:

The Top 5 companies in the Guar Gum Market are:

Cargill Inc

Ingredion

Vikas WSP

Neelkanth Polymers

Virdhara International