Chain length distribution and aggregation of branched (1→3)-β-d-glucans from Saccharomyces cerevisae

► Soluble (1→3)-β-d-glucans (SBG) were studied by aqueous SEC-MALLS and rheometry. ► The glucans form dense aggregates in aqueous solutions, even at high temperatures. ► Partial carboxymethylation (CM-SBG) provides perfectly dispersed chains ► CM-SBG behaves as single-stranded, random coils. ► SEC-MALLS protocol for chain length distribution of SBG developed.