Carrageenan is a common food additive that is extracted from a red seaweed, Chondrus crispus, which is popularly known as Irish moss. Carrageenan, which has no nutritional value, has been used as a thickener and emulsifier to improve the texture of non food material.
When you need to improve the odours in your room, air freshener gels are one of the products available at supermarkets. They are made from kappa carrageenan, a potassium salt, water and perfume. When mixed, the perfumed gel forms and it is moulded to a shape to fit the holder. When purchased, the holder is sealed; to use, the holder is opened slightly and the moisture plus perfume are gradually released from the gel. Eventually the gel dries out leaving a small residue in the holder, which is then discarded. About 200 tonne/year of seaweed flour grade of carrageenan is the estimated consumption for this application.
Use for: Air Freshner, Car Perfume
There is increasing concern over the inclusion of carrageenan, a seaweed-derived natural product that acts as a binder, thickening agent, and as a stabilizer in many processed human foods and beverages and canned cat and dog foods. There should be no doubt to any pet food manufacturer – carrageenan comes with health risks for the pets consuming this ingredient with each meal.
Use for: Pet Food