Algae
Explore 3 ingredients and additives classified under Algae. Check forensic animal derivations, E-numbers, and verified plant swaps.
3
100% Plant-Based
0
Animal Derived
0
Check Required
All Algae (3)
Agar-agar
✓ VeganAgar-agar is a natural vegetable gelatin extracted from red algae (Rhodophyta). 100% plant-based.
Carrageenan (E407)
✓ VeganCarrageenan is a family of natural linear sulfated polysaccharides extracted from red edible seaweeds (Rhodophyta). 100% plant/marine-algae derived.
Spirulina
✓ VeganSpirulina is a nutrient-dense blue-green microalga cultivated in fresh alkaline water ponds. 100% plant-based superfood containing ~57g protein per 100g.
Understanding Algae in Plant-Based Diets
Biochemical Origins & Production
Ingredients in the Algae category can stem from plant crops, microbial fermentation, mineral synthesis, or animal byproducts. In modern industrial food processing, identical chemical compounds are frequently produced via both botanical and animal extraction routes.
When an ingredient has dual-source origin (such as glycerin, mono- and diglycerides, or stearic acid), vegan certification or direct manufacturer confirmation is necessary to ensure 100% plant or synthetic origin.
Label Reading & Ingredient Scrutiny
Food labeling regulations in major jurisdictions (including US FDA 21 CFR and EU Regulation 1169/2011) do not require manufacturers to disclose whether processing aids or multi-source carriers contain animal byproducts.
Always look for explicit "Suitable for Vegans" or "Certified Plant-Based" seals on packaged food products containing items flagged as Check Required.
Scan a Full Product Label
Paste any ingredient list from a package to instantly detect animal byproducts, E-numbers, and ambiguous additives with our live Ingredient Checker.