LabelGuard
Sign InGet Started
Ingredient Guide

🇨🇦 Carrageenan on Food Labels in Canada

Carrageenan is permitted with proper declaration in Canada: declare as "carrageenan" in the ingredient list.

Check My Label for Canada CompliancePaste Ingredients List
What the Rule Is

Natural polysaccharide extracted from red seaweed, used as a thickener and gelling agent. In Canada, Carrageenan is regulated under FDR & Safe Food for Canadians Regulations as a food thickener. Health Canada permits carrageenan as a food additive. Must be declared by name. No infant formula restriction in Canada (unlike EU).

What You Must Include
  • Declare as "carrageenan" in the ingredient list
  • Declare with functional class: "thickener" and E-number E407
  • Review all compound ingredients for hidden sources
  • Cross-check all compound ingredients and sub-ingredients for hidden sources
Common Violations
  • Incorrect or missing declaration name — must use "carrageenan"
  • Using an ambiguous or abbreviated name that does not identify Carrageenan
  • Omitting the E-number E407 where required
  • Not updating the label after recipe changes involving this ingredient
  • Failing to check compound ingredients for hidden Carrageenan content
Examples: Compliant vs Non-Compliant

Compliant Examples

"thickener: carrageenan"
"carrageenan" in ingredient list
Full ingredient line: "Ingredients: ... carrageenan ..."

Non-Compliant Examples

Using a synonym (Carrageenan, Irish moss extract) without the approved declaration name
Ingredient list with "Carrageenan" without functional class or E-number
"Natural [ingredient category]" without specific name where specific name is required
How LabelGuard Checks This

LabelGuard scans your label for Carrageenan and all its common names (E407, Carrageenan, Irish moss extract, Chondrus extract) to verify correct declaration, required E-numbers, and proper functional class labeling under Canada rules.

Start Your Compliance Check
Frequently Asked Questions

How must Carrageenan be declared on food labels in Canada?

Declare as "carrageenan" in the ingredient list. Health Canada permits carrageenan as a food additive. Must be declared by name. No infant formula restriction in Canada (unlike EU).

What are the common synonyms and hidden sources of Carrageenan?

Carrageenan may appear under the following names: E407, Carrageenan, Irish moss extract, Chondrus extract. Common hidden sources include: Infant formula, Dairy products, Plant-based milks, Deli meats, Chocolate milk, Ice cream.

Is Carrageenan banned or restricted in any market?

Restricted with maximum levels in: EU, UK.

Regulation Sources

Last updated: 2026-04-01

Disclaimer: This information is for guidance only and does not constitute legal advice. Always consult official regulations and seek professional legal advice for specific compliance questions.

Ensure Canada Compliance

Get your label checked against all Canada regulations in seconds.

  • AI-powered compliance check
  • 200+ regulatory checks
  • Detailed violation reports
  • Fix suggestions included
Start Compliance Check

Starting at $29 per label check

Related Resources
Canada Compliance Hub

Explore all Canada labeling requirements in one place.

View Canada Hub

Ready to Ensure Full Canada Compliance?

LabelGuard checks your labels against all FDR & Safe Food for Canadians Regulations requirements in seconds. Catch violations before they cost you.

Start Your First Check - $29View Pricing Plans

Trusted by food manufacturers, supplement brands, and compliance teams worldwide