E407 Carrageenans

Carrageenan (Carrageenan, Carrageenan and its Na’ K and NH4 salts, Carrageenan, Carrageenan sodium salt, Carrageenan potassium salt, Carrageenan ammonium salt, E407)

Carrageenans are natural thickeners that are obtained from the so-called red algae, which are distributed almost everywhere in the seas and oceans. The main suppliers of carrageenan are the Philippines, Indonesia, the coasts of Chile, the United States, Canada and France, that is, those states that have the warmest waters in their waters.

General characteristics of E407

Carrageenans belong to polysaccharides, have several types, depending on the type of algae and the water area of their growth. The carrageenan production process is quite complex, using the extraction method and then repeated cleaning and washing of the product (calorizator). The substance is a small, variously shaped granules, usually transparent or light brown in color, odorless and tasteless, well soluble in water. Registered as a food additive E407.

History of the name and origin of the Carrageenans

Oddly enough, the carrageenans got their name from the red algae found in the cold waters of Ireland (Chondrus Crispus, or Irish moss). Carrageenans have been known since the IX century, since then the property of gelation of these substances is used everywhere. Currently, more than 300 types of known carrageenans are used (the most famous of which are kappa, iota and lambda carrageenans).

Benefits and harms of E407

According to unconfirmed reports, carrageenans have antiviral and anti-ulcer properties, allegedly preventing the appearance of malignant tumors. But, an excessive amount of carrageenan in the human body can provoke inflammatory processes in the gastrointestinal tract.

Application of Carrageenans

The main application of the food additive E407 is the gelation and thickening of food products – milk and chocolate mixes, cheese pastes, whipped cream. The substance acts as a stabilizer for the production of ice cream, confectionery mousses, as well as products made from pastry dough. The inscription E407 is found on packages with canned vegetables and meat products – in order to increase the volume of products.

Use of E407

Carrageenans are allowed to be used throughout our country, the food additive is used for the production of infant formula and dairy products for baby food.