Is Carrageenan (E407) Vegan?

Vegan status: Vegan

E-number: E407

Also known as: Irish moss extract, Kappa-carrageenan, Iota-carrageenan, Lambda-carrageenan

Source

Extracted from red seaweed (Chondrus crispus and related species), primarily farmed in the Philippines, Indonesia, and Chile. Entirely marine plant-derived.

Commonly found in

Plant milks (used as a thickener/stabiliser), dairy-free ice cream, processed meats, chocolate milk, infant formula, some beers and wines, cosmetics.

Vegan alternative: No substitute needed — E407 is vegan. Often confused with isinglass, which is animal-derived.

Notes

Carrageenan is vegan but has been subject to health controversy — some animal studies suggest it may cause intestinal inflammation. The relevant form is degraded carrageenan (poligeenan), not food-grade carrageenan, but the debate continues. Following EFSA's 2018 re-evaluation and the European Commission's earlier restrictions, carrageenan was prohibited in infant formula in the EU (Directive 2006/52/EC; confirmed under Regulation EU 2016/127). EFSA concluded in 2018 that the genotoxicity concern could not be ruled out at high intakes. Some vegan brands specifically market as carrageenan-free in response to consumer concerns.