Tag: Carrageenan safety

Controversy has surrounded the food additive carrageenan since the 1960s, leading many to question its impact on health. Research into its inflammatory potential is heavily debated, especially concerning the distinction between its undegraded food-grade version and a harmful degraded counterpart.

First commercially used in 1940, carrageenan is a common ingredient in processed foods. But why is carrageenan in creamer, and what purpose does this seaweed-derived additive serve in your morning coffee?

According to the FDA, food-grade carrageenan is "generally recognized as safe" (GRAS), yet growing evidence suggests potential health concerns, particularly for individuals with existing gastrointestinal issues. In deli meats, this common additive is used to retain moisture and improve texture, prompting many to question: is carrageenan in deli meat safe?.

According to the FDA, food-grade carrageenan is considered 'generally recognized as safe,' yet its presence in many drinks has sparked ongoing controversy. This debate often hinges on a key distinction: understanding the difference between the approved food-grade form and its harmful counterpart, raising the critical question: **Is carrageenan safe in drinks?**

According to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), food-grade carrageenan is "generally recognized as safe" (GRAS), yet consumer perception often paints a different picture due to ongoing controversy. This debate hinges on potential health impacts like inflammation and digestive issues, leading many to question if carrageenan truly qualifies as a 'clean' ingredient.

In the 1980s, the average U.S. adult consumed about 0.1 grams of carrageenan daily; today, that figure has reportedly risen to approximately 2.5 grams. But how much is too much carrageenan, and what does this increased exposure mean for your health? This question has sparked significant debate, contrasting regulatory approvals with animal studies and anecdotal reports suggesting adverse effects.

According to the ingredient lists provided by McDonald's, multiple versions of its soft serve products have historically included carrageenan. This seaweed-derived additive functions as a stabilizer and thickener, helping to create the familiar smooth texture of McDonald's ice cream while preventing separation.