Is carrageenan e407 vegan?

Carrageenan E407 is a food additive commonly known as carrageenan, which functions as a gelling agent, thickener, and stabilizer. It is extracted from several species of edible red seaweeds, most notably Irish moss. To manufacture it, harvested seaweed is washed and cooked in an alkaline solution, after which the carrageenan is filtered, precipitated, dried, and milled into a fine powder.

This additive is widely utilized across the food industry to improve mouthfeel and prevent ingredients from separating. Common items listing carrageenan E407 include plant-based milks, non-dairy cheeses, ice creams, desserts, salad dressings, sauces, and processed meat alternatives.

carrageenan E407 is vegan because it is derived exclusively from marine algae and involves no animal-derived raw materials or processing aids. Its botanical origin and chemical extraction process ensure that it remains entirely free of animal products from start to finish.