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Source
Not animal-derived
Allergen
No
Role in food
Manufacturers use calcium alginate as a casing for processed meats like sausages and corn …
What it is
Calcium alginate is a salt derived from alginic acid, which is a natural substance found in brown seaweed. It is produced by reacting alginic acid with a calcium salt. The resulting material forms a gel that can be used to create casings for processed foods.
Why it's used
Manufacturers use calcium alginate as a casing for processed meats like sausages and corn dogs. It provides a consistent texture and appearance, and it can be easily removed or eaten with the product. It is often used in frozen appetizers and breakfast items.
Health notes
Calcium alginate is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA for use in food. It is a source of calcium and dietary fiber. International bodies like JECFA and EFSA have evaluated alginates and their salts, and have established acceptable intake levels. No significant health concerns are associated with its consumption at typical levels.
Allergen info
Not a major allergen. It is derived from seaweed, which is not one of the nine FDA major allergens, and does not contain gluten.
Products containing Casing Made From Calcium Alginate
Note:
This site presents label data from USDA FoodData Central for general information. It is not medical advice.
Check the package label; formulations change.