Carrageenan powder, derived from red seaweed, plays a crucial role in various industries, particularly food and pharmaceuticals. In China, this versatile ingredient has garnered significant attention due to its thickening, gelling, and stabilizing properties. Understanding its applications and sourcing can greatly benefit businesses and consumers alike.

This guide will delve into the origins of carrageenan, its types, and the manufacturing processes prevalent in China. Readers will also discover its regulatory landscape, market trends, and health considerations, equipping them with valuable insights for informed decision-making.

The Comprehensive Guide to Carrageenan Powder in China

Carrageenan powder, derived from red seaweed, is a versatile food additive widely used in various industries. Its gelling, thickening, and stabilizing properties make it essential in food production, pharmaceuticals, and even cosmetics. In China, several manufacturers and suppliers specialize in carrageenan powder, offering a range of products tailored to different applications. This guide delves into the insights, technical features, and types of carrageenan powder available in the Chinese market.

Understanding Carrageenan Powder

Carrageenan is a family of linear sulfated polysaccharides extracted from red algae, primarily from the species Eucheuma cottonii and Eucheuma spinosum. Its unique properties enable it to gel, thicken, and stabilize food products. Commonly labeled as E407 in food products, carrageenan is a popular alternative to synthetic thickeners and animal-derived gelling agents like gelatin.

Technical Features of Carrageenan Powder

The effectiveness of carrageenan depends on its chemical composition and physical characteristics. Below is a comparison table that outlines the key technical features of carrageenan:

Feature	Value
Appearance	Powder (white to yellowish)
Odor	Odorless
Particle Size	95% pass 120 mesh
Viscosity (1.5%, 75°C)	≥ 5 mPa.s
Total Ash Content	15-40%
pH Level	8-11
Gel Strength	Kappa: ≥ 1300 g/cm², Iota: ≥ 450 g/cm²
Moisture Content	≤ 12%
Microbial Limits	Total Plate Count ≤ 5000 CFU/g
Heavy Metals (Lead)	≤ 5 ppm
Heavy Metals (Arsenic)	≤ 3 ppm
Heavy Metals (Mercury)	≤ 1 ppm
Heavy Metals (Cadmium)	≤ 2 ppm

Types of Carrageenan Powder

Carrageenan is classified into different types based on its refining process and functional properties. The primary types include Kappa, Iota, and Lambda carrageenan. Each type has unique characteristics that determine its application in various products. Below is a comparison table of the different types of carrageenan:

Type	Solubility	Gel Strength	Applications
Kappa	Soluble in hot water and milk	Forms firm, brittle gels	Dairy products, desserts, meat products
Iota	Soluble in hot water and milk	Forms soft, elastic gels	Puddings, sauces, dairy desserts
Lambda	Soluble in cold water	Does not gel	Thickening agent in sauces, dairy products

Kappa Carrageenan

Kappa carrageenan is known for its ability to form firm gels in the presence of potassium ions. It is commonly used in dairy products, puddings, and jellies. Its gel strength is significantly higher compared to other types, making it ideal for applications requiring a firmer texture.

Iota Carrageenan

Iota carrageenan forms soft and elastic gels, making it suitable for products like dairy desserts and sauces. This type is favored for its freeze-thaw stability and is often used in applications where a softer texture is desired.

Lambda Carrageenan

Lambda carrageenan is unique as it does not form gels but acts as a thickening agent. It is commonly used in sauces and dressings due to its ability to provide viscosity without gelling. This makes it an excellent choice for various culinary applications.

Suppliers and Manufacturers in China

China is home to several reputable suppliers and manufacturers of carrageenan powder. Each company offers a variety of products tailored to meet the needs of different industries. Some of the notable suppliers include:

Fooding (www.Chinafooding.com) – Specializes in food additives, including carrageenan. They focus on high-quality products and professional support for their clients.
Gino Biotech (ginobiotech.com) – A prominent supplier of various types of carrageenan, including refined and semi-refined options. Gino is known for its commitment to providing high-quality ingredients for the food industry.
Gum Stabilizer (gumstabilizer.com) – Offers a range of carrageenan products along with technical support and custom packaging solutions for clients.
Zipin Biotech (www.zipinbiotech.com) – A leading manufacturer and exporter of carrageenan, providing a wide array of products for food and pharmaceutical applications.

Conclusion

Carrageenan powder plays a crucial role in food production and other industries due to its versatile gelling, thickening, and stabilizing properties. With various types available, manufacturers can choose the appropriate type based on their specific application needs. China’s market for carrageenan is robust, with several reliable suppliers offering high-quality products. Whether you are looking for kappa, iota, or lambda carrageenan, there are options available to suit your requirements.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is carrageenan powder used for?
Carrageenan powder is primarily used as a thickener, stabilizer, and gelling agent in food products such as dairy, desserts, sauces, and meat products.

2. Are there different types of carrageenan?
Yes, there are three main types of carrageenan: Kappa, Iota, and Lambda, each with distinct properties and applications.

3. How is carrageenan derived?
Carrageenan is derived from red seaweed through a process that includes extraction, purification, and drying to obtain a powdered form.

4. Is carrageenan safe to consume?
Carrageenan is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by food safety authorities when used within recommended limits.

5. Where can I buy carrageenan powder in China?
You can purchase carrageenan powder from several suppliers and manufacturers in China, such as Fooding, Gino Biotech, Gum Stabilizer, and Zipin Biotech.