CAS · 9062-07-1
Product Overview
iota-Carrageenan is a high-purity food-additives supplied for industrial and specialty chemical applications. Contact our team for specifications, packaging options and lead times.
Product Specifications
| Grade | Food grade |
|---|---|
| Appearance | Yellowish to white flowing powder |
| Particle size | 90% min through 120 mesh |
| Sulphate (as SO₄²⁻) | 15-40% |
| Viscosity | 5 mPa·s min |
| Loss on drying | 12% max |
| Total ash content | 15-40% |
| Water gel strength | 40 g max |
| pH level | 8-11 |
| Transparency | 80% min |
| Acid-insoluble ash | 1% max |
| Arsenic (As) | 3 mg/kg max |
| Lead (Pb) | 5 mg/kg max |
| Mercury (Hg) | 1 mg/kg max |
| Cadmium (Cd) | 2 mg/kg max |
| Total plate count | 5000 CFU/g max |
| Moulds and yeasts | 300 CFU/g max |
| E. coli | Absent in 5 g |
| Salmonella | Absent in 10 g |
Applications
Iota-carrageenan is extensively used as a gelling, thickening, and stabilizing agent in food products such as dairy desserts, yogurts, puddings, and processed meats, where it improves texture, consistency, and moisture retention. In the pharmaceutical and biomedical fields, it is applied in drug delivery systems, nasal sprays, and topical formulations due to its biocompatibility and ability to form hydrogels. It is also utilized in personal care products like lotions, shampoos, and toothpaste as a viscosity modifier and stabilizer. Additionally, iota-carrageenan is used in biotechnology and research for cell culture media, encapsulation systems, and as a matrix for controlled release of active ingredients. Its antiviral properties have also led to its inclusion in formulations aimed at preventing or reducing viral infections in mucosal applications.
Benefits
The key benefits of iota-carrageenan include its natural origin, biodegradability, and excellent safety profile, making it suitable for food and pharmaceutical use. Its ability to form soft, elastic gels distinguishes it from other carrageenan types, providing desirable textures and improved mouthfeel in food products. It has strong water-binding capacity, enhancing moisture retention and stability in formulations. The compound is highly effective at low concentrations, making it cost-efficient for industrial applications. In biomedical uses, its biocompatibility and non-toxic nature support safe application in drug delivery and personal care products. Additionally, its antiviral and mucoadhesive properties provide functional benefits in healthcare formulations, particularly for protective and therapeutic applications.
Conclusion
Iota-carrageenan is a versatile natural polysaccharide with wide-ranging applications in food, pharmaceuticals, personal care, and biotechnology. Its unique gelling behavior, safety, and multifunctional properties make it an essential ingredient for improving texture, stability, and performance across various industries. As demand grows for natural and functional additives, iota-carrageenan continues to play a significant role in modern formulation and product development.
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