Irish Moss
Also known as: Carrageen moss
Whole seaweed is generally regarded as a traditional food. The derived additive carrageenan (E407) is more controversial — JECFA and EFSA consider it safe at typical use levels; some studies suggest GI inflammation in animal models, particularly for degraded forms (poligeenan), which is not used in food.
What it is
Chondrus crispus, a red seaweed; also processed into carrageenan.
Whole-form: gelling/thickening in traditional foods. Processed: carrageenan extracts (E407) for stabilization.
Why it's flagged
- high iodine content (whole seaweed)
- carrageenan-form GI effects (debated)
What regulators actually say
"Carrageenan is the hydrocolloid extracted from Chondrus crispus, Eucheuma cottonii, Eucheuma spinosum, Gigartina aciculaire, Gigartina pistillata..."
"Re-evaluation of carrageenan (E 407) and processed Eucheuma seaweed (E 407a) as food additives."
Regulatory status
United States — FDA
GRAS as carrageenan (21 CFR 172.620); whole seaweed is food
European Union — EFSA
Authorized as E407; re-evaluated by EFSA 2018
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