Types of Carrageenan
By on Apr 9th 2025
Carrageenan is a natural gelling agent derived from red seaweed, widely utilized in industries ranging from food production to pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, pet food, and household products. Due to its versatile properties, carrageenan functions as an effective thickener, stabilizer, and gelling agent. The primary types (Kappa, Iota, and Lambda) each offer distinct characteristics that cater to different applications.
Kappa Carrageenan: Firm and Robust Gelling
Kappa carrageenan is perfect for applications that require more bind because it is well-known for its ability to form strong, brittle gels. This type requires heat for solubility and gels upon cooling. Due to its binding interaction with proteins like myosin and casein, Kappa carrageenan is commonly used in processed deli meats, dairy products (like flavored milk and ice cream), confectionery items, and pet foods. It also enhances texture and moisture retention in various consumer goods, including solid air fresheners.
In contrast, Kappa-2 carrageenan types produce soft gels and are used almost exclusively in dairy and dairy alternative applications.
Iota Carrageenan: Soft, Flexible, and Stable
Iota carrageenan provides a softer, more flexible gel, which makes it ideal for applications that need a more elastic consistency. Iota requires heating for solubility and can aid in freeze-thaw stability. Iota is commonly used in marinated meats, pie fillings, icings and other confectionary applications. It can also be used in cosmetics applications like lotions and creams for gelling, thickening, and stabilizing effects. In pharmaceutical applications it can be used in soft gel capsules and toothpaste.
Lambda Carrageenan: A Cold-Soluble Thickener
Lambda carrageenan differs from the others because it is cold soluble and does not normally gel. Lambda is a highly effective thickening agent used to enhance viscosity, mouthfeel, texture and product stability. It can be found in whipping creams, instant puddings, sauces, and beverage mixes. Lambda is great for the pharmaceutical industry for its use in stabilizing syrups and liquid suspensions. You may also find it in your hair products to help achieve the creamy smooth texture.
| Carrageenan Type | Functionality | Application |
|---|---|---|
| Kappa |
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| Iota |
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| Lambda |
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Refined vs. Semi-Refined Carrageenan
Carrageenan comes in two primary forms:
- Refined carrageenan offers higher purity, making it ideal for pharmaceuticals and foods requiring exceptional clarity.
- Semi-refined carrageenan includes seaweed cellulose, providing a cost-effective solution suitable for food, pet food, and household items.
Explore Carrageenan Solutions at Ingredi
At Ingredi, we provide specialized carrageenan solutions tailored to meet diverse industry needs:
- MBF-202: Semi-refined Kappa carrageenan with salt, ideal for cost-effective binding solutions.
- MBF-69: Semi-refined Kappa, excellent for high-quality food applications.
- SI-100: Pure refined Iota, offering premium functionality.
Contact us at Ingredi to explore our range of high-quality products and discover how we can help elevate your formulations.
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