Is Agar-Agar banned?
Agar-Agar is permitted by the US FDA. Several countries restrict, warning-label, or have reviewed it for safety concerns. The US has more lenient additive rules than the EU, UK, Canada, and Japan, which is why this ingredient remains widely used here.
Why Agar-Agar is flagged
Generally recognized as safe with no identified health risks at food use levels. Agar is not significantly digested and acts as a bulk dietary fiber. Very large amounts can cause constipation or intestinal obstruction if consumed without adequate water. EFSA confirmed its safety in 2016.
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