Discover which foods contain carrageenan and learn how to avoid this common food additive in your diet. Find out more about carrageenan in dairy alternatives, processed meats, desserts, nutritional drinks, and pet foods.
Carrageenan is a common food additive that is derived from red seaweed. It is used in a variety of processed foods for its thickening and stabilizing properties. While carrageenan is generally recognized as safe by the FDA, some people may experience digestive issues or sensitivities to it. If you are looking to avoid carrageenan in your diet, here is a list of foods that commonly contain this additive:
Many plant-based milk alternatives such as almond milk, coconut milk, and oat milk contain carrageenan to improve texture and consistency.
Certain processed meats like deli meats, hot dogs, and sausages may contain carrageenan as a binder or stabilizer.
Ice cream, yogurt, pudding, and other dairy-based desserts often use carrageenan to enhance creaminess.
Meal replacement shakes, protein drinks, and other nutritional beverages may include carrageenan for its thickening properties.
Carrageenan is also commonly found in pet foods, particularly wet cat and dog food, to improve texture and palatability.