Carregeenan

Carrageenan is a common food additive derived from red seaweed. It is extracted from the seaweed using an alkali process, then dried and ground into a powder. It is used to thicken, stabilize, and emulsify food products.

Manufacturers add carrageenan to foods to improve texture and prevent ingredients from separating. It is commonly found in dairy products like ice cream and yogurt, as well as in processed meats, infant formula, and some plant-based milk alternatives.

Carrageenan is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for use in food. The Joint FAO/WHO Expert Committee on Food Additives (JECFA) and the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) have also evaluated carrageenan. Some studies have raised questions about its potential health effects, particularly regarding inflammation and digestive issues, but regulatory bodies consider it safe at typical consumption levels. More research is ongoing to fully understand its impact.