Sodium Alginate
Sodium alginate is a water-soluble polysaccharide found in brown seaweed. It is a multi-purpose food additive (e.g., emulsifier, thickener, stabilizer).
Found In
- Beverages
- Condiments
- Confections
- Gelatin and pudding
- Milkshakes fruit smoothie-type drinks
- Processed fruits & fruit juices
- Beverages
- Condiments
- Confections
- Gelatin and pudding
- Milkshakes fruit smoothie-type drinks
- Processed fruits & fruit juices
Also Known As
- Alginic Acid, Sodium Salt
- E401
- Alginic Acid, Sodium Salt
- E401
The Beverage Bottom Line
Sodium alginate is authorized for use in the U.S., Europe and Canada.
This ingredient may have authorizations in countries not included on this site.
Sodium alginate is authorized for use in the U.S., Europe and Canada.
This ingredient may have authorizations in countries not included on this site.
International Assessments and Authorizations
FDA U.S. Food And Drug Administration
Affirmation by FDA this ingredient is generally recognized as safe as a direct human food ingredient. (GRAS FDA-Affirmed)
In 2012, FDA issued no objections to a GRAS notice about a polysaccharide complex containing sodium alginate.
In 1973, the health aspects of alginates as a food ingredient were evaluated.
Learn more →EFSA European Food Safety Authority
Safe for intended uses.
Learn more →JECFA Joint FAO/WHO Expert Committee on Food Additives
Safe for intended uses.
Learn more →Health Canada
Safe for intended uses.
Learn more →This page was last updated on 6/30/2025