Question: what are thickening agents in cooking?
Answer: Cornstarch. Cornstarch is the most common thickening agent used in the industry. ... 
Pre-gelatinized Starches. Pre-gelatinized starches are mixed with sugar and then added to the water or juice. ... 
Arrowroot. ... 
Agar-Agar. ... 
Algin (Sodium Alginate) ... 
Carrageenan or Irish Moss. ... 
Gelatin. ... 
Gum Arabic or Acacin.