Agar
What is Agar?
Agar is a jelly-like substance derived from red algae. It is processed from seaweed through boiling and then drying into sheets, flakes, or powder. Agar is a complex carbohydrate, primarily made up of agarose and agaropectin.
Is Agar vegan?
Agar is not animal-derived. Products that contain it can still include other animal-derived ingredients, so check the full ingredient list.
Is Agar gluten-free?
Gluten is not present in agar.
Is Agar a major allergen?
Agar is not derived from any of the 14 major allergens that UK law requires to be emphasised on food labels.
What is Agar used for?
Manufacturers use agar as a gelling agent, thickener, and stabiliser in a wide variety of foods.
Is Agar safe?
Agar is authorised as a food additive in Great Britain and is listed on the Register of Food Additive Authorisations.
Why it's used
Manufacturers use agar as a gelling agent, thickener, and stabiliser in a wide variety of foods. Its ability to form a firm gel at room temperature makes it ideal for desserts like jellies, puddings, and ice cream, as well as in some dairy products and baked goods.
Health notes
Agar is authorised as a food additive in Great Britain and is listed on the Register of Food Additive Authorisations. It has been evaluated by EFSA, which concluded that it is safe for use. Agar is largely indigestible and can contribute to dietary fibre intake. Some studies suggest it may have a mild laxative effect and can increase feelings of fullness, potentially aiding in weight management, though more research is needed.
Regulatory status
Authorised in Great Britain (FSA register): England, Scotland, Wales. FSA register of authorised products
Permitted uses in the EU
| Food category | Maximum level |
|---|---|
| 1.6.2 Unflavoured live fermented cream products and substitute products, both with a fat content of less than 20 % | No numerical limit listed |
| 4.2.5 jam jellies and marmalades and similar products | 10000 |
| 4.2.5.2 Jam, jellies and marmalades and sweetened chestnut puree as defined by Directive 2001/113/EC | 10000 |
| 4.2.5.3 other similar fruit or vegetable spreads | 10000 |
| 13.2 Foods for special medical purposes as defined by Regulation (EU) No 609/2013 (excluding products from food category 13.1.5.) | No numerical limit listed |
Allergen info
Agar is not derived from any of the 14 major allergens that UK law requires to be emphasised on food labels. It is considered safe for individuals with allergies to common allergens. Gluten is not present in agar.
Foods that contain Agar
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