E407a — Processed eucheuma seaweed
E407a (Processed eucheuma seaweed), a emulsifier, is rated "avoid": worth avoiding. A less-refined form of carrageenan from eucheuma seaweed. Shares the same gut-inflammation concerns and is covered by the same temporary EFSA acceptable daily intake.
What is Processed eucheuma seaweed?
Carrageenan that has been less refined, with the cellulose from the seaweed left in. Used in plant milks, dairy alternatives, and processed meats.
What does it do to the body?
Same concerns as refined carrageenan: animal and human cell studies suggest gut inflammation, especially relevant for people with inflammatory bowel disease.
What regulators say
Covered under the same temporary EFSA group acceptable daily intake of 75 mg per kg of body weight per day from 2018.
Risk rating: Avoid
Known or suspected to cause harm: a substance EFSA or another regulator has flagged, or one restricted in some jurisdictions. Best kept out of a regular diet.
Source: EFSA — re-evaluation of carrageenan and PES (2018) ↗