Carrageenan E407
natural β Primarily seaweed-derived.
Carrageenan
CAS: 9000-07-1
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?
Carrageenan occurs naturally in Red seaweed (Rhodophyceae) and Irish moss (Chondrus crispus). Many people consume it daily without realizing it's also a listed food additive.
Carrageenan is derived from seaweed, a practice that originated centuries ago in East Asian cooking traditions.
Beyond food, Carrageenan is also used in cosmetics, medicine, industrial applications. Its versatility makes it one of the most multi-purpose chemical compounds in everyday life.
Detailed Regulatory Assessment
European Union (EFSA)
Widely permitted; degraded carrageenan (poligeenan) is not permitted
United States (FDA)
Food-grade carrageenan only; degraded carrageenan not permitted
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 family of linear sulfated polysaccharides extracted from red seaweed. Used as a thickener, stabilizer, and gelling agent.
Manufacturing
Extracted from red seaweed using hot water or alkaline solution, followed by filtration, precipitation, and drying.
Applications Beyond Food
Used in toothpaste, shampoos, and lotions as a thickening agent.
Used in pharmaceutical formulations as a suspending agent.
Used in textile printing and as a clarifying agent in brewing.