Chemical x Dictionary
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What is Carrageenan or E407?
Carrageenan is a natural multi-sugar that is extracted from red or purple seaweed. It is used as a thickening agent, gelling agent and a stabilizer in the foods, pet foods and personal care products.
What are the other names this ingredient is also known as?
Carrageenan (INS 407), Emulsifier and Stabilizer (407), Emulsifying & Stabilizing Agent (E-407), Gelling Agent (E407), Gelling Agent (INS 407), Gelling Agents 407, Permitted Emulsifying & Stabilizing Agents (INS 407), Permitted Stabilizer (E 407), Permitted Stabilizer 407, Stabiliser (E407), Stabilizer (407), Stabilizer (E 407), Stabilizer (E-407a), Stabilizer (INS 407), Stabilizing Agents (INS 407), Thickener 407, Vegetable Gum 407
What products is it used in?
It is found in condensed milk, beer, soy milk, dairy products, vegan milks, vegan cheese, cottage cheese, cream, ice cream, jellies and candies. It is also found in pet foods like biscuits and kibbles that are mainly for dog and cat foods. In personal care products like toothpaste it is used as an emulsifier and thickener and improves the texture of the product.
What is the source of this ingredient?
Carrageenan is a natural substance extracted from certain types of red seaweed. It is not synthetic but derived from a natural source. Carrageenan is commonly used as a thickening and stabilising agent in the food industry, particularly in dairy and plant-based products. It is considered vegan and vegetarian as it is a naturally occurring polysaccharide and is extracted from red or purple algae.
Is this ingredient bad for me?
Some research suggests carrageenan is highly inflammatory and contributes to IBS (irritable bowel syndrome). It is claimed to be a carcinogen (a substance capable of causing cancer) even though there isn’t concrete evidence to prove the same.
What should I do?
Avoid at all costs
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