Carrageenan

Kappa-carrageenanIota-carrageenanLambda-carrageenanCarrageeninCarrageen

Emulsifier

Carrageenan is a thickening agent derived from seaweed. It helps mix liquids that don't normally mix together, like oil and water.

What it is

Carrageenan is a polysaccharide extracted from red algae seaweed, used to thicken and stabilize food products.

Found in

plant-based milks, yogurts, ice creams, sauces, and dressings

The concern

Some studies have raised concerns about carrageenan's potential impact on gut health, but more research is needed to fully understand its effects.

Legal status

Authorized for use in food products by FDA and EFSA, but some countries have restrictions on its use in infant formula.

Low Concern

Generally recognized as safe for consumption in food products.

Evidence & sources

Authority source

EFSA

Article / explainer

No highly relevant article explainer found yet.

Video explainer

Video

Thomas DeLauer

Community questions

Community discussions are not used as safety evidence and no highly relevant discussion is shown for this ingredient.

Compare this ingredient with related ingredients and common alternatives.

Dimethicone

Another emulsifier in the reviewed ingredient set.

Magnesium Stearate

Another emulsifier in the reviewed ingredient set.

Polysorbate 80

Another emulsifier in the reviewed ingredient set.

Retinyl Palmitate

Another emulsifier in the reviewed ingredient set.

Xanthan Gum

Another food additive commonly checked in ingredient-list reviews.

Guar Gum

Another food additive commonly checked in ingredient-list reviews.

Last updated: June 9, 2026