Is Agar (E406) Vegan?

Also known as: Agar-agar, Kanten, Chinese isinglass, Japan isinglass

Vegan

Extracted from red algae and seaweed, primarily from Gelidium and Gracilaria species. Widely produced in Japan, Chile, and Morocco.

Ingredient Data

Vegan Status

Vegan

E-Number

E406

Also Known As

Agar-agar; Kanten; Chinese isinglass; Japan isinglass

Source

Extracted from red algae and seaweed, primarily from Gelidium and Gracilaria species. Widely produced in Japan, Chile, and Morocco.

Commonly Found In

Vegan jellies and desserts, plant-based panna cotta, Asian sweets (mochi, jelly cubes), some candies, microbiological culture media.

Vegan Alternative

No substitute needed — agar is itself a gelatin replacement.

Additional Notes

Sets firmer than gelatin at room temperature. Does not melt as easily. A staple ingredient in Japanese cuisine and vegan baking. The name 'China isinglass' is confusing but it is 100% plant-derived.

Related entries