In a model emulsion system consisting of 10% w/w of methyl linoleate and 0.5% w/v of Tween 20 as an emulsifier in a 0.05 M sodium acetate buffer (pH 4.0) with polysaccharide, locust bean gum, xanthan and glucomannan considerably inhibited oxidation, as proved by the change in peroxide value. Carrageenan and chitosan had no or only a small effect on oxidation. There was no evidence of organic radical scavenging activity as shown by ESR, but oxidation inhibiting polysaccharides manifested an iron binding activity.