Carrageenan (E407) – what is it?
Carrageenan, also known as E407, is a natural polysaccharide extracted from red marine algae, mainly of the Chondrus and Eucheuma genera. Used in the food industry as a gelling, stabilizing and thickening agent, carrageenan is a valued ingredient for its ability to improve the texture and consistency of food products.
Thanks to its unique properties, carrageenan is widely used in the production of many types of foods, including dairy products, meat products, beverages and confectionery. It is an additive that is completely safe for health, provided it is used as recommended.
Properties of carrageenan
Carrageenan is characterized by its ability to form gels of varying consistency, from soft to very hard, which depends on its concentration and the presence of other ingredients in the product. It can also improve the stability of products by preventing liquid precipitation (syneresis) and the formation of ice crystals in frozen products.
Carrageenan applications
Due to its versatile properties, carrageenan is used in a wide range of food products. In the dairy industry, it is used in the production of yogurts, dairy desserts and cream cheeses, where it improves texture and provides a uniform consistency. In the meat sector, it is added to cured meats and pates to increase their moisture content and viscosity. Carrageenan is also used in beverages, as a stabilizer to prevent delamination, and in confectionery, such as jellies, to achieve the desired gel texture.
Where to buy carrageenan?
Carrageenan is available to both the food industry and individual consumers. It can be purchased at food stores, health food stores and online. It is available in various forms, such as powder or flakes, making it easy to use in home cooking.
Carrageenan and its functions in food
As a food additive, carrageenan plays a key role in improving the quality and shelf life of food products. Its main functions are to stabilize emulsions, improve texture, thicken and prevent separation of product components. These properties make carrageenan an indispensable ingredient in the food industry, enabling the production of foods with excellent texture and long-lasting freshness.
