# kappa-carrageenan sodium

> chemical substance

**Wikidata**: [Q106728408](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q106728408)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/kappa-carrageenan-sodium

## Summary
Kappa-carrageenan sodium is a type of carrageenan, a binding food additive derived from seaweed. It is classified as a chemical substance and is a specific subclass of carrageenan, known for its gelling and thickening properties in food and other applications.

## Key Facts
- **UNII**: P2VBL3HVFC (reference: [FDA SRS](http://fdasis.nlm.nih.gov/srs/srsdirect.jsp?regno=P2VBL3HVFC))
- **CAS Registry Number**: 37359-47-0 (reference: [FDA SRS](http://fdasis.nlm.nih.gov/srs/srsdirect.jsp?regno=P2VBL3HVFC))
- **Class**: Carrageenan (a seaweed-derived food additive)
- **Subclass**: Kappa-carrageenan sodium
- **Instance of**: Chemical substance
- **Aliases**: κ-carrageenan sodium

## FAQs
### Q: What is kappa-carrageenan sodium used for?
A: Kappa-carrageenan sodium is primarily used as a food additive to improve texture, thickening, and gelling properties in various food products.

### Q: Is kappa-carrageenan sodium safe for consumption?
A: Yes, it is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by regulatory authorities when used within approved limits in food applications.

### Q: How is kappa-carrageenan sodium different from other types of carrageenan?
A: Kappa-carrageenan sodium is one of several types of carrageenan, each with distinct gelling and stabilizing properties. It is specifically noted for its unique characteristics in food applications.

## Why It Matters
Kappa-carrageenan sodium plays a crucial role in the food industry as a functional ingredient. Its ability to enhance texture and stability makes it valuable in a wide range of products, from dairy to baked goods. As a natural seaweed derivative, it offers a sustainable alternative to synthetic thickeners. Its regulatory approval and widespread use underscore its importance in modern food production and processing.

## Notable For
- **Food Additive**: Used to improve texture and stability in various food products.
- **Natural Origin**: Derived from seaweed, making it a sustainable alternative to synthetic thickeners.
- **Regulatory Approval**: Generally recognized as safe (GRAS) for food applications.
- **Unique Properties**: Exhibits distinct gelling and thickening characteristics compared to other carrageenan types.

## Body
### Classification and Composition
Kappa-carrageenan sodium is a specific type of carrageenan, a group of sulfated polysaccharides extracted from red seaweed. It is classified as a chemical substance and is a subclass of carrageenan, known for its functional properties in food systems.

### Regulatory and Identification
- **UNII**: P2VBL3HVFC (reference: [FDA SRS](http://fdasis.nlm.nih.gov/srs/srsdirect.jsp?regno=P2VBL3HVFC))
- **CAS Registry Number**: 37359-47-0 (reference: [FDA SRS](http://fdasis.nlm.nih.gov/srs/srsdirect.jsp?regno=P2VBL3HVFC))
- **Aliases**: κ-carrageenan sodium

### Applications
Kappa-carrageenan sodium is widely used in the food industry to enhance texture, thickening, and gelling properties. It is approved for use in various food products, including dairy, baked goods, and beverages.

### Safety and Approval
The substance is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by regulatory authorities when used within approved limits in food applications. Its natural origin and functional benefits make it a preferred choice in food formulation.

## References

1. [Source](http://fdasis.nlm.nih.gov/srs/srsdirect.jsp?regno=P2VBL3HVFC)