Is Carrageenan Safe for Human Consumption?

Carrageenan in Capsules: What You Need to Know

Carrageenan might sound unfamiliar, but it’s simply a natural ingredient derived from red seaweed. It’s commonly used in capsule shells as a plant-based alternative to gelatin. Its purpose is straightforward: to give capsules their shape and stability without relying on animal products. For anyone seeking vegetarian or vegan supplements, it’s a fantastic choice.

Is Carrageenan Safe? Absolutely.

Here’s the good news: carrageenan is safe and trusted by experts. Regulatory organisations like the FDA and EFSA have thoroughly reviewed it and approved its use in food and supplements. It’s important to understand that concerns about carrageenan often arise from confusion between two forms:

  • Undegraded Carrageenan – the safe and approved type used in consumable products.
  • Degraded Carrageenan (Poligeenan) – a form linked to potential health risks, but not used in food or supplements.

Rest assured, only the safe, undegraded version of Carrageenan is used in our capsules. We are in the business of Natural Health, after all!

Clearing Up Misconceptions

The confusion between these two forms has led to unnecessary worry. Studies that link carrageenan to health risks are actually about Poligeenan, which isn’t allowed in food or supplements. The Carrageenan used in capsules is completely different—it’s safe, carefully regulated, and widely recognised as reliable.

Why Is Carrageenan Used in Capsules?

Carrageenan plays an important role in creating stable, effective capsules. It provides the structure that softgels need while staying 100% plant-based. Unlike gelatin, which comes from animal sources, Carrageenan supports those looking for vegan and vegetarian-friendly supplements. It ensures the capsules stay intact and deliver their contents effectively.

Is Carrageenan a Filler?

No, carrageenan is not classified as a filler in supplements.

What Are Fillers?

Fillers in supplements are inactive ingredients used to add bulk, improve texture, or help with the manufacturing process. Common examples include cellulose, maltodextrin, or magnesium stearate. None of our products contain fillers of any kind, and never will.

Why Carrageenan Isn’t a Filler

Carrageenan serves a functional purpose in the capsule itself, not as a bulking agent for the active ingredients. It’s an alternative to gelatin, offering a plant-based solution for vegetarian and vegan products.

So, while carrageenan plays an important role in the supplement, it’s not classified as a filler—it’s more accurately described as a capsule-forming material.

Feel Confident About Your Supplements

Carrageenan is a natural, safe, and approved ingredient that makes high-quality, plant-based capsules possible. By using Carrageenan, manufacturers like us can meet the growing demand for vegan supplements without compromising on safety or performance.

Understanding the difference between the safe Carrageenan used in your supplements and the unrelated Poligeenan is key to feeling confident in your choices. You can trust that Carrageenan-based capsules are not only effective, but also a smart and conscientious option.

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