Carrageenan

Carrageenan (CAS 9000-07-1) is a sulphated polysaccharide extracted from red seaweed, commercially available under trade names including Genugel, Pellugel, and Coreine. It is classified under HS code 13023911 and recognised by regulatory bodies across food, pharmaceutical, and cosmetic applications.

In food systems, carrageenan forms thermoreversible gels by binding to proteins, making it effective for controlling texture in dairy products and processed meats. In personal care formulations, it stabilises emulsions and suspensions by increasing viscosity and preventing phase separation without altering product clarity.

Carrageenan is supplied in solid form across refined and semi-refined grades, with compliance available to FCC, Ph.Eur., and REACH requirements depending on the intended application. Procurement teams should specify kappa, iota, or lambda type based on gelling behaviour requirements, as each fraction delivers distinct rheological profiles.