Ingredient · E407

The Following: Carrageenan

Source
Not animal-derived
Allergen
No
Role in food
Manufacturers add carrageenan to foods to improve texture and prevent ingredients from separating. It …

This entry is a label phrase. See the main ingredient page: Carrageenan.

What is The Following: Carrageenan?

Carrageenan is a food additive derived from red seaweed. It is extracted from the seaweed using alkali treatment, then dried and powdered. It is commonly used as a stabilizer and thickener.

Is The Following: Carrageenan vegan?

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

Is The Following: Carrageenan gluten-free?

It does not contain gluten.

Is The Following: Carrageenan a major allergen?

Carrageenan is derived from seaweed and is not one of the nine major allergens recognized by the FDA.

What is The Following: Carrageenan used for?

Manufacturers add carrageenan to foods to improve texture and prevent ingredients from separating.

Is The Following: Carrageenan safe?

Carrageenan is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA for use in food.

Why it's used

Manufacturers add carrageenan to foods to improve texture and prevent ingredients from separating. It is often found in dairy products like milk, ice cream, and yogurt, as well as in processed meats and some low-fat foods.

Health notes

Carrageenan is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA for use in food. It has been evaluated by international bodies like JECFA and EFSA. Some studies have raised questions about potential health effects, particularly concerning inflammation and digestive issues, but the evidence is mixed and more research is needed to fully understand these effects at typical consumption levels.

Allergen info

Carrageenan is derived from seaweed and is not one of the nine major allergens recognized by the FDA. It does not contain gluten.

Foods that contain The Following: Carrageenan

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Last updated: September 28, 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.