Agar Agar CAS 9002-18-0

Agar Agar – Natural Hydrophilic Colloid for Food, Pharmaceutical, and Biotechnology Applications

Basic Information

• CAS Number: 9002-18-0

• Appearance: Off-white dry powder or strips

• Solubility: Insoluble in cold water; dissolves only in boiling water

• Origin: Extracted from red algae (Gracilaria, Gelidium, and other marine seaweeds)

• Packaging: Available in various sizes (e.g., 1 kg, 5 kg, 25 kg bags)

• Storage: Store in a cool, dry place, away from moisture and direct sunlight

Overview
Agar is a natural hydrophilic colloid extracted from various marine red algae species, such as Gracilaria and Gelidium. It is one of the most widely used natural gelling agents, valued for its unique gel properties, high stability, and safety. Agar is not only an essential food additive (as a thickener, stabilizer, emulsifier, and gelling agent) but also finds extensive use in microbiology, pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, and plant tissue culture. Its ability to form strong, reversible gels that are resistant to microbial degradation makes it indispensable in many applications.

Key Properties

• Forms strong, clear gels at low concentrations.

• Gelation occurs upon cooling, reversible upon heating.

• Resistant to enzymatic and microbial breakdown.

• Non-toxic, safe, and biodegradable.

• Compatible with a wide range of ingredients.

Applications

1. Food industry: Used in the production of milk products, soy sauce, mayonnaise, ketchup, salad dressings, dessert creams, yogurt, dairy desserts, chocolate, chewing gum, candies, and jellies.

2. Pharmaceuticals and microbiology: Serves as a culture medium for bacteria, fungi, and molds; provides a clear, transparent gel for microbial growth, fermentation, and testing.

3. Health products: Acts as a natural dietary fiber and green food ingredient; derived from marine macroalgae, suitable for health-conscious consumers.

4. Cosmetics: Used in emulsions, shampoos, hair gels, face masks, toothpaste, and other personal care products as a stabilizer, thickener, and film-former.

5. Plant tissue culture: Widely used in plant propagation, micropropagation, and orchid cultivation to provide a solid nutrient medium.

6. Other uses: As a solid alcohol fuel binder, in photographic film and paper molds, and in various laboratory applications.

Recommended Use
Typical usage levels: 0.5–2.0% (by weight) depending on the desired gel strength and application. Dissolve by heating to boiling in the appropriate liquid; allow to cool to set.

Handling and Storage

• Store in a cool, dry place, away from moisture and direct sunlight.

• Keep containers tightly sealed to prevent moisture absorption and contamination.

• Use appropriate personal protective equipment (gloves, dust mask) when handling.

Quality Assurance
Each batch is tested for gel strength, pH, moisture content, heavy metals, and microbial purity to ensure compliance with food and pharmaceutical standards.