Carrageenan

Definition

Carrageenan is a food additive derived from red seaweed, often used to thicken, emulsify, and preserve foods and drinks.

Scientific / Technical Definition

Carrageenan is a sulfated polysaccharide extracted from certain species of red seaweed, such as Chondrus crispus. It is widely used in the food industry for its gelling, thickening, and stabilizing properties, particularly in dairy and meat products.

Benefits

• Carrageenan helps improve texture and shelf life of foods.
• It acts as a vegetarian or vegan alternative to gelatin in various food products.
• Carrageenan can improve the mouthfeel of low-fat and non-fat food products.

Examples

• Ice cream
• Yogurt
• Soy milk
• Chocolate milk
• Processed meats

Additional Information

• side effects: Potential side effects include gastrointestinal disturbances such as bloating, inflammation, and degradation if consumed in large amounts or the degraded form. There is ongoing debate over its safety in sensitive individuals.

Related Terms

• Food Additives
• Preservatives
• Thickeners
• Emulsifiers

References

• Review of the toxicological status of carrageenan
• Carrageenan: a review