One Or More Of The Following: Carageenan

Carrageenan is a common food additive derived from red seaweed. It is extracted from the seaweed and processed to create a powder that can be used in various food products. The processing aims to isolate the gelling and thickening properties of the seaweed.

Carrageenan is primarily used as a thickener, stabilizer, and emulsifier in food. It helps to improve the texture and consistency of products, preventing ingredients from separating. It is commonly found in dairy products like ice cream and yogurt, as well as in processed meats and plant-based milk alternatives.

Carrageenan is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA for use in food. Both the Joint FAO/WHO Expert Committee on Food Additives (JECFA) and the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) have evaluated carrageenan. Some studies have raised concerns about potential inflammatory effects of degraded carrageenan, but the FDA maintains that food-grade carrageenan is safe. Research on its effects at typical consumption levels is ongoing.