E407a: Processed Eucheuma Seaweed
Main role: thickening and gelling
Also listed as: processed eucheuma seaweed, PES, semi-refined carrageenan
What is E407a (Processed Eucheuma Seaweed)?
E407a is a processed seaweed ingredient related to carrageenan but with a distinct specification and retained seaweed material. It can thicken or form gels in suitable foods. It should be distinguished from refined carrageenan E407.
What does it do in food?
Its main role is thickening and gelling. Texture ingredients help a recipe control thickness, binding, or separation. Their behavior depends on temperature, acidity, concentration, and other ingredients; two thickeners with similar names may not perform identically.
Food and formulation examples
- Selected dairy-style desserts
- Structured food preparations
- Texture-control blends
These examples describe formulation roles, not a list of unrestricted legal uses. Availability and permitted applications differ by country and food category.
Label names and ingredient questions
Look for E407a, E 407a, or the ingredient name. Related names and label terms include processed eucheuma seaweed, PES, semi-refined carrageenan. A family code can cover more than one specified form; check the full declaration when the distinction matters.
E407a and E407 are related but not identical specifications. A comparison should keep the processing method and actual product use visible rather than treating every seaweed thickener as the same ingredient.
Is E407a safe?
There is no meaningful personal risk estimate from an E number alone. Food-grade specifications, allowed uses, amount consumed, and individual circumstances all matter. The authorization record below gives the legal scope; it is not a claim that every possible use is appropriate.
A label identifies the ingredient but usually not its concentration. Calculating daily intake requires the amount in the food and the quantities eaten.
Authorization and conditions of use
The Great Britain food additive register lists E407a as Processed euchema seaweed. This is an entry subject to its stated conditions, not unrestricted permission for every food. The record links to the applicable authorization terms. For an EU product, use the European Commission food additive database to check the relevant food category and limits. Other countries may use different names or rules.