Is it vegan? Additives & E-numbers E407
Is carrageenan vegan?
Quick answer: Yes. Carrageenan (E407) is extracted from red seaweed and is vegan; it is widely used as a plant-based alternative to gelatin.
Also called: E407, E407a, Irish moss, processed Eucheuma seaweed
Why it’s vegan
Carrageenan is a gelling and thickening agent obtained from species of red seaweed. EFSA re-evaluated carrageenan (E407) and processed Eucheuma seaweed (E407a) as food additives in 2018.
It is used in plant milks, vegan desserts, ice cream, processed meats and some vegan capsule shells. Some people avoid it for digestive or other health reasons, but its origin is entirely plant-based (algal).
What to look for on the label
- E407
- E407a
- carrageenan
- Irish moss
Where it’s found
- Plant-based milks, creams and desserts
- Jellies and set desserts
- Ice cream
- Vegan capsule shells
Frequently asked questions
Is carrageenan vegan?
Yes. Carrageenan (E407) is extracted from red seaweed and is vegan; it is widely used as a plant-based alternative to gelatin.
Is carrageenan safe?
EFSA re-evaluated it in 2018 and set conditions for its use. It is an approved additive in the EU and UK.
Sources
- Approved additives and E numbers — Food Standards Agency (UK)
- Re-evaluation of carrageenan (E 407) and processed Eucheuma seaweed (E 407a) as food additives (2018) — EFSA Journal
Checked on 31 October 2026. Ingredients and recipes change, and the same product can differ between countries — always check the current label. This page is general information, not allergy or medical advice.