The Lab
Specimen No. 0070
AvoidNaturalfood additivethickener

Carrageenan

carrageenan · e407 · irish moss extract

Red seaweed-derived thickener. While "natural," research suggests it promotes intestinal inflammation and may be contaminated with degraded carrageenan (poligeenan), which is carcinogenic.

medium confidence
Researched April 18, 2026

Concerns

  • Promotes intestinal inflammation and increases intestinal permeability in animal and cell studies
  • Contamination with degraded carrageenan (poligeenan) — a definite carcinogen (IARC Group 2B for poligeenan)
  • National Organic Standards Board voted to remove it from certified organic foods (2012) — decision later reversed
  • Linked to worsening of IBD symptoms in some patients

Regulatory flags

  • EU removed degraded carrageenan from permitted food additives
  • NTP animal studies suggest intestinal inflammation at high doses

Commonly found in

Dairy alternativesInfant formulaDeli meatSalad dressingChocolate milk

Research disclaimer: This rating is based on available peer-reviewed research and regulatory assessments at the time of publication. It is not medical advice. Consult a qualified professional for personal health or skin concerns.

Check another ingredient

Search our database of scored cosmetic, food, and household ingredients — or scan a full product label.

Open the Ingredient Lab

Embed this verdict

LabelCleared verdict badge: Carrageenan — Avoid
<a href="https://labelcleared.com/lab/carrageenan"><img src="https://labelcleared.com/embed/carrageenan/badge.svg" alt="LabelCleared verdict badge: Carrageenan — Avoid" height="34"></a>