Ingredient · E406

Agaragar

Source
Not animal-derived
Allergen
No
Role in food
Manufacturers use agar-agar primarily as a thickening and gelling agent. Its ability to create …

What is Agaragar?

Agar-agar is a jelly-like substance derived from red algae, a type of seaweed. It is processed by boiling the algae and then drying the resulting gelatinous extract into sheets, flakes, or powder.

Is Agaragar vegan?

Agaragar is not animal-derived. Products that contain it can still include other animal-derived ingredients, so check the full ingredient list.

Is Agaragar gluten-free?

It does not contain gluten.

Is Agaragar a major allergen?

Agar-agar is not derived from any of the nine major allergens.

What is Agaragar used for?

Manufacturers use agar-agar primarily as a thickening and gelling agent.

Is Agaragar safe?

Agar-agar is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA.

Why it's used

Manufacturers use agar-agar primarily as a thickening and gelling agent. Its ability to create firm gels makes it a popular ingredient in desserts like puddings, jellies, and custards, as well as in some dairy products and baked goods.

Health notes

Agar-agar is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA. It is a source of soluble fiber and may aid in digestion. JECFA has evaluated agar and did not set a numeric limit (ADI not specified). Some studies suggest it may promote a feeling of fullness, potentially aiding in weight management, but more research is needed.

Allergen info

Agar-agar is not derived from any of the nine major allergens. It does not contain gluten.

Foods that contain Agaragar

Compare products →

Learn more

Ultra-Processed Foods and the NOVA Scale →

Auto-generated content. This description was generated automatically and is pending editorial review. Inaccuracies are possible. Found a mistake? Contact us.

Last updated: October 5, 2026

Note: This site presents label data from USDA FoodData Central for general information. It is not medical advice. Check the package label; formulations change.