Chondrus Crispus
Chondrus crispus seaweed is a traditional food and has GRAS status. Refined carrageenan derived from it is approved by FDA and EFSA.
What it is
Chondrus crispus, commonly called Irish moss, a red seaweed harvested for its carrageenan content.
Used whole or as a source of carrageenan; thickener, gelling agent, and stabilizer.
Why it's flagged
- unverified GI inflammation claims (mostly degraded forms)
- iodine content
What regulators actually say
"Carrageenan is the hydrocolloid extracted from various red seaweeds of the Rhodophyceae family (principally species of Chondrus, Eucheuma, Gigartina and Iridaea)."
"The Panel established an ADI of 75 mg/kg bw per day for carrageenan (E 407) and processed Eucheuma seaweed (E 407a)."
Regulatory status
United States — FDA
Carrageenan from Chondrus crispus is permitted under 21 CFR 172.620; the seaweed itself is treated as a conventional food.
European Union — EFSA
E 407 carrageenan approved with ADI 75 mg/kg bw/day (EFSA 2018).
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