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Ingredient Guide

🇪🇺 Carrageenan on Food Labels in EU

Carrageenan is permitted with restrictions and maximum levels in European Union: declare as "carrageenan (E407)" in the ingredient list.

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What the Rule Is

Natural polysaccharide extracted from red seaweed, used as a thickener and gelling agent. In European Union, Carrageenan is regulated under FIC Regulation 1169/2011 as a food thickener. Authorized for most foods. However, carrageenan is NOT permitted in infant formula and follow-on formula under EU Regulation (EU) 2016/127. Must be declared by name and E-number. Some concern about degraded carrageenan (poligeenan) contamination — EFSA reviewed safety in 2018.

What You Must Include
  • Declare as "carrageenan (E407)" 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 (E407)"
  • 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 (E407)"
"carrageenan (E407)" in ingredient list
Full ingredient line: "Ingredients: ... carrageenan (E407) ..."

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 EU rules.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How must Carrageenan be declared on food labels in EU?

Declare as "carrageenan (E407)" in the ingredient list. Authorized for most foods. However, carrageenan is NOT permitted in infant formula and follow-on formula under EU Regulation (EU) 2016/127. Must be declared by name and E-number. Some concern about degraded carrageenan (poligeenan) contamination — EFSA reviewed safety in 2018.

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.

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