Is carragen vegan?

Carrageen, also known as carragen or Irish moss, is a type of seaweed that grows on the rocky shores of the Atlantic coastlines. The plant's unique properties come from its high content of carrageenan, a polysaccharide that acts as a thickening agent and stabilizer. This ingredient is commonly used in the food industry to add texture and improve the mouthfeel of a wide range of products, including ice cream, yogurt, cheese, and plant-based milk alternatives. Carrageen has also been used in traditional Irish medicine for centuries as a remedy for respiratory ailments and digestive issues. With its natural origins and versatile applications, carrageen has become an increasingly popular ingredient in both culinary and pharmaceutical fields.