Overview

Carrageenan is a food additive derived from certain species of red seaweed. It is a naturally occurring polysaccharide that is widely used in the food industry for its gelling, thickening, and stabilizing properties. Carrageenan is commonly used in a variety of food products, including dairy alternatives, processed meats, desserts, beverages, and sauces. It helps improve the texture, viscosity, and mouthfeel of these products, providing a smooth and creamy consistency. As a gelling agent, carrageenan forms a gel-like structure when combined with water, giving foods a desired firmness or structure. It also acts as a stabilizer, preventing ingredient separation and maintaining the overall quality and appearance of food products.