E401

E401, also known as sodium alginate, is a food ingredient commonly used in various processed foods. It is derived from brown seaweed, which is a type of algae found in oceans. Sodium alginate is extracted from the cell walls of these seaweeds and processed into a white or yellowish powder form for use in food production.

The production of sodium alginate involves extracting the compound from brown seaweed through a series of steps. These steps typically include washing the seaweed to remove impurities, breaking it down into smaller pieces, and then extracting the sodium alginate through a chemical process. The extracted sodium alginate is further processed into a powdered form before being used in food manufacturing.

Sodium alginate is added to food products for its ability to act as a thickening agent, emulsifier, or stabilizer. It helps improve the texture and consistency of foods such as ice cream, salad dressings, and sauces. Sodium alginate is also commonly used in the production of certain desserts like jelly or puddings, where it assists in creating a smooth and gel-like texture. Its presence on food labels indicates its role in enhancing the overall quality and eating experience of various processed foods.

Foods in the CalorieStar database containing E401