What is E407? Carrageenan Explained
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E407 is Carrageenan — a thickener extracted from red seaweed, used in dairy products and deli meats — under ongoing scientific scrutiny for gut effects.
What is E407 (Carrageenan)?
E407 is Carrageenan, a food additive classified as a thickeners & gelling agent that thicken and gel foods. A thickener extracted from red seaweed, used in dairy products and deli meats — under ongoing scientific scrutiny for gut effects. You'll find it in soups and gravies, yoghurts, jams and many other packaged foods. Carrageenan is one of the better-known food additives and appears regularly in label-reading guides and dietary discussions. Like every E-number, E407 has been authorised for use in food following an EFSA safety evaluation — though authorisation doesn't mean concern-free, as the safety section below explains.
Where is E407 found?
E407 (Carrageenan) is found in soups and gravies, yoghurts, jams, ready meals, salad dressings, ice cream.
- soups and gravies
- yoghurts
- jams
- ready meals
- salad dressings
- ice cream
Also known as: Carrageenan
Is E407 safe?
E407 is authorised in the EU and UK but carries genuine concerns. For most people consuming Carrageenan in typical quantities, health effects are unlikely — but the caution flag reflects either active scientific debate, mandatory warning labels, allergen status, or conditions attached to its authorisation.
EFSA opinion: Carrageenan — status Some concerns.
Check the calorie content of foods containing E407. If you’re pregnant, see our pregnancy food safety guide.
Cleaner alternatives to E407
organic vegan seaweed snacks
MORiSH Crispy Seaweed Thins
Want a snack where you can read every ingredient? MORiSH crispy seaweed thins are organic, vegan and gluten-free — no hidden E-numbers.
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E407 FAQs
What is E407 in food?
E407 is Carrageenan — a thickener extracted from red seaweed, used in dairy products and deli meats — under ongoing scientific scrutiny for gut effects.
Is E407 safe to eat?
E407 is authorised in the EU and UK but carries genuine concerns. For most people consuming Carrageenan in typical quantities, health effects are unlikely — but the caution flag reflects either active
Is E407 vegan?
E407 (Carrageenan) is vegan. It is derived from red seaweed, with no animal involvement in standard food production.
Is E407 halal?
E407 (Carrageenan) is halal. It is derived from red seaweed, which involves no haram sources.
Related Thickeners & Gelling Agents additives
Also check: safe for cats? · safe for dogs? · calorie checker · medication interactions
Data: Open Food Facts (ODbL) · EFSA