Properties of Carrageenan

• Chemical Composition:Carrageenan consists of sulfated polysaccharides, primarily composed of galactose units, and is classified into three main types: kappa, iota, and lambda, each with distinct gelling and thickening properties
• Solubility:Carrageenan is soluble in hot water and forms a gel or viscous solution depending on the type and presence of salts such as potassium or calcium.
• pH Sensitivity:Carrageenan's functionality is influenced by pH and ionic conditions. Kappa carrageenan forms strong, brittle gels in the presence of potassium ions, while iota carrageenan forms elastic gels with calcium ions.
• AppearanceIt is typically available as a white to off-white powder, depending on the source and processing method.

Applications of Carrageenan

• Food Industry
  • Dairy Products: Used as a stabilizer in milk-based drinks, ice cream, and yogurts to improve texture and prevent separation.
  • Meat & Processed Foods: Enhances moisture retention and texture in processed meats and plant-based alternatives.
  • Beverages: Acts as a suspension agent in chocolate milk and plant-based dairy alternatives.
  • Bakery & Confectionery: Improves the consistency of dough and enhances texture in jellies and candies.
• Pharmaceutical Applications
  • Drug Delivery Systems: Employed in controlled-release pharmaceutical formulations.
  • Throat Lozenges & Cough Syrups: Used as a thickening agent to improve consistency and efficacy.
  • Wound Care Products: Applied in biomedical applications for its gelling properties.
• Cosmetic & Personal Care
  • Thickening Agent: Found in creams, lotions, and shampoos for improved texture.
  • Moisturizer: Helps retain moisture and enhances product stability.
  • Haircare Products: Adds conditioning properties to shampoos and hair gels.
• Industrial Applications
  • Textile Industry: Used as a natural binder in fabric treatments and printing processes.
  • Biodegradable Films: Utilized in the development of eco-friendly packaging materials.
  • Pet Food Industry: Enhances texture and palatability in wet pet food formulations.