This cluster of papers focuses on the production, properties, and applications of hydrocolloids, particularly in food and biomedical fields. It covers a wide range of hydrocolloids such as xanthan gum, guar gum, gellan gum, pullulan, konjac glucomannan, and locust bean gum. The papers discuss their rheological properties, microbial production, antioxidant activity, molecular structure, and various food and biomedical applications.