Tag: Seaweed extracts

Carrageenan is a linear sulfated polysaccharide extracted almost exclusively from red algae. Despite common confusion, brown algae do not contain carrageenan, but instead produce other polysaccharides like alginate and fucoidan. This distinction is critical for understanding the source and function of these different marine hydrocolloids used across the food, cosmetic, and pharmaceutical industries.

According to the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), global production of alginate from seaweed is approximately 30,000 tons per year, showcasing its widespread industrial use. This versatile polysaccharide, often found in processed foods, acts as a gelling and thickening agent, and can be found in a variety of products that contain alginates.