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Image of Karragenan, Carrageenan

Carrageenan - a potential gut villain?

April 13, 2023

Carrageenan (E407 or E407a) is used as an emulsifier, stabilizer, thickener, and gelling agent and is extracted from dried red algae collected along the coasts of Ireland. The additive is somewhat controversial but is currently considered safe for use in food. However, some people experience digestive issues (bloating, gas) when consuming products containing carrageenan.
 
Carrageenan is used as a thickening agent in various products, including ice cream, cream, milkshakes, pâtés, toothpaste, skin and hair care products, plant-based drinks, and spreads (both meat and vegetarian). Cream is probably the most common source of carrageenan in the diet. The additive is used to stabilize the cream and prevent it from separating, allowing the fat to clump together or rise to the surface. Cream with a natural fat content of 40% does not require the use of carrageenan. This also applies to lactose-free varieties.

The substance was evaluated by the World Health Organization (WHO) in 2001 and was deemed harmless, but it is not permitted for use in baby food. The Swedish Food Agency considers it safe for humans when used in food, citing European tests and WHO documentation.

Carrageenan During the Elimination Phase

Since relatively few people with IBS react to carrageenan, we do not recommend eliminating it in step one of the elimination phase. If you suspect you react to it afterward, simply choose products that do not contain carrageenan and see if you feel better. Often, it can be other factors causing reactions. For example, it is common to react to the fat content in cream and ice cream. It is important to spread out your fat intake throughout the day rather than consuming too much at once.

Sofia Antonsson
Reg. Dietitian, Belly Balance

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