E407A · Processed eucheuma seaweed
- WHO
- Safe
- FDA
- Safe
- EFSA
- Safe
- FSANZ
- Safe
- Japan
- Safe
- UK FSA
- Safe
- Health Canada
- Safe
What is E407A?
Processed Eucheuma Seaweed (PES) is made by treating Eucheuma seaweed with alkali, producing a semi-refined carrageenan-like product used as a thickener, gelling, and stabilizing agent in foods such as dairy products, desserts, and processed meats. It is less refined than purified carrageenan (E407) but serves a similar function. It has no significant nutritional value and is not digested by the body.
Also appears on labels as: Processed Eucheuma Seaweed, Eucheuma seaweed, Eucheuma extract, Eucheuma cottonii, Eucheuma spinosum, Seaweed extract (Eucheuma), Carrageenan source, Processed red seaweed, Seaweed polysaccharides, E407a, E 407a, E-407a.
What the evidence says
- As a less-refined relative of carrageenan, similar caution applies for people with sensitive digestive systems or inflammatory bowel conditions.
- Considered safe at typical dietary levels by regulatory authorities, though it is less studied than purified carrageenan.
Research behind the verdict
- Processed Eucheuma Seaweed: Alternative Carrageenan Safety Assessment — EFSA Panel on Food Additives and Flavourings, EFSA Journal - Carrageenan Re-evaluation (2018). A detailed safety evaluation of processed eucheuma seaweed (E407a) examining its use as an alternative to traditional carrageenan processing methods. The research confirmed that this seaweed-derived additive presents similar safety characteristics to carrageenan when processed according to approved standards. The study noted its effectiveness as a gelling agent and stabilizer while maintaining marine origin benefits. The assessment supports its use in food applications with proper processing controls and quality assurance.[safe_in_moderation]
Frequently asked questions
Is E407A safe?
Our overall verdict for E407A (Processed eucheuma seaweed) is “Safe”, based on the most cautious of the major regulators’ positions — FDA: safe; WHO: safe; EFSA: safe; FSANZ: safe; Japan: safe; UK FSA: safe; Health Canada: safe.
Is E407A vegan, halal or gluten-free?
According to our ingredient data for Processed eucheuma seaweed — vegan: yes, vegetarian: yes, halal: yes, kosher: yes, gluten-free: yes, dairy-free: yes. Manufacturing sources can vary between products; check the label if it matters to you.
What is E407A and why is it used?
Processed Eucheuma Seaweed (PES) is made by treating Eucheuma seaweed with alkali, producing a semi-refined carrageenan-like product used as a thickener, gelling, and stabilizing agent in foods such as dairy products, desserts, and processed meats. It is less refined than purified carrageenan (E407) but serves a similar function. It has no significant nutritional value and is not digested by the body.
Does E407A contain allergens?
No known allergens are recorded for Processed eucheuma seaweed, though some people report sensitivity (May aggravate symptoms in people with inflammatory bowel disease or irritable bowel syndrome.).
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This page summarises publicly available regulatory assessments and research. It is general information, not medical advice. Sources: EFSA, FDA, WHO and the studies linked above.