Liquid thickener compositions are provided. The compositions may be used to thicken foods and other products. The compositions include at least one gum or thickener and one or more hydration or swelling inhibitors. The inhibitors decrease the viscosity of the concentrated thickener composition, but then permit the composition to function as a thickener upon dilution. Such compositions may provide for thickener compositions that are readily flowable and that require decreased mixing compared to other thickener compositions.