Alginic Acid E400
natural β Primarily seaweed-derived.
Alginic acid
CAS: 9005-32-7
Factual Regulatory Reference
This database provides factual regulatory information compiled from official government sources. It does not constitute medical, nutritional, or safety advice. Regulatory status varies by country and is subject to change. Always refer to your local regulatory authority for the most current information.
? Did You Know?
Alginic Acid occurs naturally in Brown seaweed (Phaeophyceae) and Kelp (Laminaria species). Many people consume it daily without realizing it's also a listed food additive.
Alginic Acid is derived from seaweed, a practice that originated centuries ago in East Asian cooking traditions.
Beyond food, Alginic Acid is also used in cosmetics, medicine, industrial applications, household products. Its versatility makes it one of the most multi-purpose chemical compounds in everyday life.
Detailed Regulatory Assessment
European Union (EFSA)
Widely permitted in most food categories
Official EFSA LinkUnited States (FDA)
Regulated as a direct food additive under FDA CFR titles.
Japan (MHLW)
Compliant with Japanese food sanitation law.
Acceptable Daily Intake (ADI)
International Standard (JECFA)
mg/kg body weight per day
European Standard (EFSA)
Natural Occurrence
A natural polysaccharide extracted from the cell walls of brown seaweed. Forms the structural component that gives seaweed its flexibility.
Manufacturing
Extracted from brown seaweed using alkaline solution, followed by acidification to precipitate alginic acid, then filtered and dried into powder form.
Applications Beyond Food
Used in face masks, lotions, and dental impression materials.
Used in wound dressings and as a tablet binder.
Used in textile printing, paper sizing, and welding rod coatings.
Used in molecular gastronomy for spherification techniques