E402 — Potassium Alginate

Potassium alginate (E402) is a food additive derived from brown seaweed. It is primarily used as a thickener, stabilizer, and emulsifier in various food products. Generally considered safe, it is approved for use in many countries.

Danger Level: 1 – Potassium alginate is considered almost safe, with minimal health risks when consumed within recommended limits.

Purpose in Products

Potassium alginate serves multiple functions in food products:

  • Thickening Agent: It enhances the texture of products like sauces, soups, and dressings.
  • Stabilizer: It helps maintain the consistency and quality of emulsions in products such as ice cream and dairy items.
  • Gelling Agent: It is used in confectionery to create gels and in processed meats to improve texture.

Health Considerations

Potassium alginate is generally recognized as safe. However, excessive consumption may lead to mild gastrointestinal issues like bloating or diarrhea. It is advisable to adhere to the acceptable daily intake levels established by health authorities. 

Impact on Children

Potassium alginate is permitted in foods for infants and young children, specifically in puddings and desserts based on processed cereals. 

Impact on Taste

As a thickener and stabilizer, potassium alginate does not significantly alter the taste of food products.

Compatibility with Other Additives

Potassium alginate is compatible with various other food additives, including other thickeners and stabilizers. It is often used in combination with other substances to achieve desired textures and consistencies in food products. 

Natural Occurrence

Potassium alginate is derived from brown seaweed, where it occurs naturally as alginic acid. The alginic acid is extracted and then converted into its potassium salt form for use in food products. 

Alternatives and Substitutes

Alternative thickeners and stabilizers include:

  • Agar-Agar: A plant-based gelling agent derived from red algae.
  • Carrageenan: Extracted from red seaweed, used for gelling and thickening.
  • Xanthan Gum: A polysaccharide used as a thickening agent in various food products.

Regulation

Potassium alginate is approved for use in the European Union and many other countries. Regulatory bodies have established acceptable daily intake levels to ensure consumer safety. 

Conclusion

Potassium alginate (E402) is a widely used food additive known for its thickening, stabilizing, and gelling properties. It is generally considered safe when consumed within recommended limits and is approved for use in many countries. While it offers functional benefits in food processing, it is important to be mindful of consumption levels to avoid potential mild gastrointestinal discomfort.