Is Agar Agar Safe?
Agar Agar is the additive E406 — extracted from red seaweed, used as a thickeners & gelling agent to help thicken foods and create gels for the right texture.
Is Agar Agar safe to eat?
E406 is considered safe. It is authorised across the EU, UK and US, and safety evaluations by the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) have not identified health concerns at the levels used in food. For most people there is no reason to avoid E406.
EFSA status: Authorised in the EU — no safety concern at current levels of use
Source: European Food Safety Authority
What is Agar Agar?
E406 is the E-number for agar, one of the thickeners & gelling agents group of food additives (E400–E499). Additives in this group thicken foods and create gels for the right texture. Extracted from red seaweed. Like every E-number, E406 has been evaluated and authorised for use in food in the European Union — the 'E' literally stands for Europe, and a number is only granted after a safety assessment. That authorisation doesn't mean every additive suits every diet or that all concerns are settled, which is why we break down the safety, vegan, vegetarian and halal status of E406 in detail below.
What foods contain Agar Agar?
E406 (Agar Agar) is typically found in:
- Sauces
- Soups
- Desserts
- Jams
- Plant milks and dairy alternatives
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Agar Agar bad for you?
Yes. E406 is authorised in the EU, UK and US, and EFSA evaluations found no health concern at normal food levels.
Is Agar Agar vegan?
E406 is vegan. Extracted from red seaweed, with no animal involvement in standard production.
Is Agar Agar halal?
E406 is halal. Extracted from red seaweed, with no haram source involved.
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Additive data sourced from Open Food Facts (ODbL licence) and the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA).