Unlocking the Power of Carrageenan: Carrageenan Nutrition Facts You Need to Know

Introduction

When it comes to understanding what’s in our food, we often overlook ingredients like carrageenan. But did you know that carrageenan is more than just a thickener or stabilizer? It has its own unique set of nutrition facts that can influence the food you eat.
In this article, we’ll dive into the carrageenan nutrition facts, so you can be more informed about this common food additive. Whether you're conscious of your diet or simply curious, this information is relevant to you.

Carrageenan Nutrition Facts - What You Need to Know

Let’s break down the key nutrition facts of carrageenan in a way that’s easy to understand.
While it may not be a primary source of nutrients, the carrageenan nutritional value and its role in your food is more impactful than you might think.

1. Calories

Carrageenan is virtually calorie-free. It’s used in foods as a thickener or stabilizer, but it doesn't contribute to your daily caloric intake.
This makes it a great addition for those watching their calories, especially in low-fat or diet-friendly products.

2. Proteins

As a plant-based hydrocolloid derived from seaweed, carrageenan is not a source of protein.
Its primary role is as a functional ingredient rather than a nutrient provider. However, it works well in protein-rich foods like dairy products and plant-based alternatives, improving texture without affecting protein content.

3. Fats and Cholesterol

Carrageenan contains no fats or cholesterol. This can be a reassuring fact for people trying to manage their fat intake.
As a food ingredient, it supports the texture and consistency of low-fat products without adding any extra fat or cholesterol.

4. Carbohydrates

Carrageenan is a polysaccharide, meaning it’s technically a carbohydrate. However, since it’s used in small amounts, it doesn’t add significant carbs to your diet.
Carrageenan does not break down into sugars or simple carbs, making it safe for those on low-carb or keto diets.

5. Vitamins and Minerals

Carrageenan itself does not provide significant amounts of vitamins or minerals. It is more of a support player in your food, helping to bind and stabilize the nutrients already present in the product.
However, since carrageenan is derived from seaweed, trace minerals such as iodine may be present, though in extremely small amounts. While its contribution is minimal, it's still part of the overall carrageenan nutritional value.

6. Dietary Fiber

Though carrageenan is not typically thought of as a fiber source, it is technically a type of soluble fiber. Soluble fibers can aid in digestion and have potential benefits for gut health.
Carrageenan’s role as a dietary fiber, however, is minimal given the small quantities used in food.

Kappa Carrageenan Nutritional Values (per 100g)

Item	Average values for 100g
Energy	587KJ
Protein	0.21g
Total Fat	<0.03g
Carbohydrate	2.8g
Sodium	997.29mg

Plant-Based & Vegan-Friendly One of the most important carrageenan nutritional value points for some consumers is that it’s entirely plant-based. Sourced from red seaweed, it’s a natural, vegan-friendly option for food production. This makes it a staple in plant-based diets, particularly in dairy alternatives such as almond milk, vegan cheeses, and other non-dairy products.

Conclusion

Carrageenan might not be your go-to for nutrients, but its role in food is undeniable. From its calorie-free, fat-free nature to its compatibility with plant-based diets, the carrageenan nutrition facts offer valuable insights for consumers and manufacturers alike.
If you’re looking for a reliable, natural ingredient to enhance the texture, consistency, and stability of your food products without compromising on health, carrageenan is a solid choice.
And if you're interested in sourcing high-quality carrageenan for your needs, we provide a wide range of options to help you achieve the perfect balance in your products.

At Gino Biotech, we understand the power of natural ingredients like carrageenan. Whether you’re developing dairy alternatives, low-calorie snacks, or gut-friendly foods, we offer a variety of carrageenans tailored to your specific needs.
Contact us today to explore our selection of carrageenans and elevate your products with the best in plant-based ingredients.

Contact Our team