Alginic acid
What is Alginic acid?
Alginic acid is a polysaccharide derived from brown seaweed. It is extracted from the cell walls of algae and processed to create a purified food ingredient.
Is Alginic acid vegan?
Alginic acid is not animal-derived. Products that contain it can still include other animal-derived ingredients, so check the full ingredient list.
Is Alginic acid gluten-free?
It is not related to gluten.
Is Alginic acid a major allergen?
Alginic acid is derived from seaweed and is not one of the 14 major allergens that UK law requires to be emphasised on food labels.
What is Alginic acid used for?
Alginic acid and its salts (alginates) are used as thickening, gelling, and stabilising agents in a variety of foods.
Is Alginic acid safe?
Alginic acid is authorised as a food additive in Great Britain and is listed on the Register of Food Additive Authorisations.
Why it's used
Alginic acid and its salts (alginates) are used as thickening, gelling, and stabilising agents in a variety of foods. They are commonly found in processed foods like soups, sauces, ice cream, and baked goods to improve texture and consistency.
Health notes
Alginic acid is authorised as a food additive in Great Britain and is listed on the Register of Food Additive Authorisations. EFSA has evaluated alginates and they are permitted for use in various food categories. Alginic acid is a type of fibre and is not associated with adverse health effects at typical consumption levels. JECFA has also evaluated it and set an acceptable daily intake.
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 |
|---|---|
| 13.1.3 Processed cereal-based foods and baby foods as defined by Regulation (EU) No 609/2013 | 500 |
Allergen info
Alginic acid is derived from seaweed and is not one of the 14 major allergens that UK law requires to be emphasised on food labels. It is not related to gluten.
Foods that contain Alginic acid
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