This invention contains an acidic edible liquid composition comprising a low acetylated xanthan gum in an amount effective to substantially sustain the initial viscosity of the composition for at least about four months. Particularly preferred compositions include beverages and syrups. Beverages include, without limitation, carbonated and non-carbonated soft drinks, still beverages, fruit-juice-type beverages, squashes and cordials, alcoholic and nonalcoholic, their concentrates and mixtures thereof. This invention also contains a method for stabilizing an acidic edible liquid composition which comprises admixing therewith an effective amount of a low acetylated xanthan gum in an amount effective to substantially maintain the initial viscosity of the composition for at least about four months under typical storage conditions.