Carrageenan
Carrageenan: What Is It and Is It Safe?
If you've ever checked the ingredients on a carton of almond milk or a tub of ice cream, you might have seen "carrageenan" listed. But what is it, and why is it in so many foods?
Carrageenan is a natural food additive made from red seaweed. It’s been used for centuries, originally in Ireland, where people boiled seaweed to make their puddings thicker. Today, it’s processed and used by the food industry to thicken, stabilize, or give texture to a wide variety of foods.
How Is Carrageenan Made?
Carrageenan is extracted from red seaweed through a simple process. The seaweed is harvested, dried, and boiled to release a gel-like substance. This is then filtered, dried again, and ground into a fine powder. This powder becomes the carrageenan used in foods.
Why Is Carrageenan Used in Foods?
Carrageenan helps foods have a better texture or stay mixed together. For example:
Dairy Alternatives: It keeps almond milk or soy milk from separating.
Ice Cream: Adds a smooth, creamy texture.
Processed Meats: Helps retain moisture and improve shelf life.
Sauces and Soups: Acts as a thickener without needing extra fat or calories.
Because it’s plant-based, carrageenan is popular in vegetarian and vegan foods as a substitute for animal-based thickeners like gelatin.
Is Carrageenan Safe?
Carrageenan is approved for use in food by regulatory agencies like the FDA. However, there’s been some controversy around its safety. Studies have suggested that carrageenan might cause inflammation in the digestive system. Some researchers link it to stomach discomfort and digestive issues, particularly in people with conditions like IBS (Irritable Bowel Syndrome).
It’s worth noting that the type of carrageenan used in food (called “food-grade carrageenan”) is different from another form called “degraded carrageenan,” which is not allowed in food and has been shown to cause more severe health problems in animal studies.
Should You Avoid Carrageenan?
If you have a sensitive stomach or experience digestive issues, you might want to avoid foods with carrageenan and see if it makes a difference. Some brands are now offering carrageenan-free options due to consumer demand.
For most people, occasional consumption of foods with carrageenan is unlikely to cause harm. However, if you’re concerned, reading labels and choosing alternatives without carrageenan can help you feel more confident about your food choices.
Final Thoughts
Carrageenan is a plant-based additive that’s been used for centuries, but modern processing and its widespread use have raised questions about its safety. Whether you choose to consume it or not, understanding what it is and how it’s used can help you make informed decisions about your diet.
