E407 - Carrageenan

Author: Marko Balašević Time for reading: ~1 minutes Last Updated: August 08, 2022

CHAPTERS (Table Of Contents)

Characteristics: Carrageenan and its salts are stabilizers that preserve the viscosity and consistency of the products. For information - pectin has a similar effect. The additive E 407 is determined by

Characteristic

Carrageenan and its salts are stabilizers that preserve the viscosity and consistency of the products. For information - pectin has a similar effect.

The additive E 407 is defined by the collective name polysaccharides, which are extracted from algae by treatment with alkaline solutions. Different red algae produce different carrageenans. All known types are characterized by good elasticity and are used when necessary to gel products in the preparation of suspensions. Carrageenan and its salts are natural thickeners. There is information that ethylene oxide has been found in the composition of the additive, which can lead to the formation of a highly carcinogenic substance.

Use

Carrageenan is used as a stabilizer of plasticity and viscosity in the manufacture of various products. It is widely used in the preparation of baby, medical and dietary food. Also:

in dairy, meat and fish foods;
as a stabilizer in dairy drinks with fruit (and forest);
to obtain a creamy consistency of ice cream and cream;
for ice crystallization;
as a means of retaining moisture in meat production;
as a gelling agent;
in confectionery and marmalades;

Impact on humans

Carrageenan and its salts have good biological activity and can act as an anticoagulant. The supplement E 407 is characterized by antiviral and anti-cancer activity and the ability to remove heavy metals from the body. Due to its properties it is added to baby, medicinal and dietary foods. The beneficial properties of seaweed are explained precisely by the presence of carrageenan in them.

There is no set maximum daily dose for the use of the substance. It is not an allergen and does not irritate the mucous membranes. Although there are no contraindications, it should be borne in mind that the supplement is not harmless; there are cases of adverse effects on the gastrointestinal tract, it is not recommended for use by children, especially if there are gastrointestinal problems.

E407 - Carrageenan

CHAPTERS (Table Of Contents)

Characteristic

Use

Impact on humans

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