Development and characterization of ultrastable emulsion gels based on synergistic interactions of xanthan and sodium stearoyl lactylate

•Emulsion gels were stabilized by xanthan and sodium stearoyl lactylate (SSL).•The structure of emulsion gels can be adjusted by the ratio of xanthan and SSL.•The electrostatic repulsion and hydrophobic interactions enhanced the stability.•The honeycomb structure was formed in emulsion gels to immobilize oil droplet.•The excellent stability of emulsion gels was observed under different conditions.