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E407

Carrageenan

A polysaccharide extracted from red seaweed, used to thicken and stabilize.

Thickener / Gelling

i Additive Details

| Uses

Thickens, gels, and stabilizes plant-based milks, dairy desserts, ice cream, deli meats, infant formula in some regions, jellies, sauces, and toothpaste. Provides a creamy mouthfeel at low concentrations.

| Precautions

Food-grade carrageenan is approved as safe by EFSA and the FDA. A body of animal research suggests it may contribute to gut inflammation in some individuals. The strongest concerns relate to 'degraded' carrageenan (poligeenan), which is not food-approved. Some inflammatory bowel disease patients report symptom improvement when avoiding it.

| Interactions

Forms gels in the presence of calcium and potassium ions. Functionally interchangeable with other hydrocolloids like locust bean gum (E410) and xanthan gum (E415) in many formulations.

| Origin

Extracted from red seaweed species (Chondrus crispus, Eucheuma cottonii, Kappaphycus alvarezii). Three main types are produced: kappa, iota, and lambda, each with different gelling behavior.

| Daily Intake

JECFA established a temporary 'ADI not specified' in 2014. EFSA's 2018 re-evaluation kept the previous group ADI of 75 mg per kg of body weight per day, with a call for more data on infants.

Information is sourced from public regulatory bodies (EFSA, FDA, WHO) and is for reference only. Always read the package and consult a healthcare professional for medical advice.

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