Agar-agar
Learn what Agar-agar (E406) is, why it's added to food, whether it's safe, and which products contain it.
Low concernWhat is Agar-agar?
Food additive with emulsifying, stabilizing, thickening, filling, and agglomerating properties. It is a natural product obtained from certain species of algae. It is used in the quantities specified in recipes for dairy products, sweets, creams, emulsified spreads (with or without flavors), sauces, ice cream, processed and canned fruits and vegetables, meat and fish products, eggs, spices, soups, broths, edible membranes, plant protein products, and nutritional supplements. It is also used as a carrier substance for other food additives.
Why is Agar-agar added to food?
Agar-agar (E406) is a emulsifier commonly found in: Dairy products, sweets, creams, margarine, canned fruits.
Permitted quantity: No maximum allowable dose has been established.
Is Agar-agar safe?
Low concern
No secondary effects have been reported at quantities incorporated in food.
Is Agar-agar banned anywhere?
✓ Not currently banned in the EU or known to be restricted in other countries.
Is Agar-agar okay for kids?
Not permitted in foods intended for infants and young children.
Common foods that contain Agar-agar
- Dairy products
- sweets
- creams
- margarine
- canned fruits
How to spot Agar-agar on labels
Look for any of these names in the ingredients list:
- E406
- Agar-agar
Common misspellings to watch for:
- dgar-agar
- aqar-agar
- agar-agar
- agar-agdr
- agar-aqar
- agdr-agar
- agar-dgar
Better alternatives
• May cause abdominal discomfort, bloating, or diarrhea in case of excessive consumption. • Individuals with gastrointestinal conditions or irritable bowel syndrome should avoid excessive use. • Consumed in large quantities, it may lead to laxative effects. • People with allergies to marine algae or algae-based products should exercise caution.
Also known as
- dgar-agar
- aqar-agar
- agar-agar
- agar-agdr
- agar-aqar
- agdr-agar
- agar-dgar
Scan products with BioBrief
Not sure if a product contains Agar-agar? BioBrief scans the barcode and instantly shows you every additive in the ingredients list — including E406 — with a plain-language explanation.
Frequently asked questions about Agar-agar
- Is Agar-agar safe to eat?
- No secondary effects have been reported at quantities incorporated in food.
- Is Agar-agar banned anywhere?
- Agar-agar is not currently banned in the EU or known to be restricted in other countries.
- Is Agar-agar safe for children?
- Not permitted in foods intended for infants and young children.
- How do I spot Agar-agar on a food label?
- Look for E406, Agar-agar in the ingredients list. It may also appear as: dgar-agar, aqar-agar, agar-agar.
Ingredients change. Always check the actual product label before purchasing. Information on this page is for educational purposes only.