Carrageenan, a widely utilized and popular emulsifier, has become a contentious ingredient. Both consumers and researchers have raised concerns that it may lead to inflammation and gastrointestinal issues. While some studies have established connections between carrageenan and symptoms like stomach pain, glucose intolerance, and Type 2 diabetes, other researchers have been unable to replicate these results. The Cornucopia Institute, a farm policy organization that has made carrageenan one of its primary focuses, released a document featuring consumer testimonials that reported discomfort associated with its consumption.
The National Organic Standards Board (NOSB) vote to eliminate carrageenan from the list of approved ingredients for organic foods was regarded by many as the beginning of its decline. Mark Kastel, co-founder of the Cornucopia Institute, informed Food Dive in November 2016 that if carrageenan was deemed unacceptable for organic products, it would only be a matter of time before manufacturers sought alternatives. Prior to the USDA’s recent decision, several manufacturers, including Organic Valley, Stonyfield, and Eden Foods, had already begun efforts to remove carrageenan from their products. Some products were even formulated without carrageenan from the start due to the controversies surrounding the ingredient. Given its negative reputation, the market for this emulsifier is anticipated to grow very slowly.
When the board voted to eliminate carrageenan from the list of substances permitted in organic food, the rationale did not pertain to health concerns. Board members believed that other alternatives were available. However, the Federal Register entry stated the opposite, noting that public comments indicated a need for manufacturers to continue using carrageenan “because of the unavailability of wholly natural substitutes.” This marks only the second instance in three decades where the USDA has gone against the NOSB’s recommendation to exclude an ingredient from the approved list, as highlighted by the Cornucopia Institute.
The Grocery Manufacturers Association, which advocated for carrageenan’s retention on the approved list, praised the USDA’s decision. “USDA made the right decision to allow carrageenan to remain on the list of approved food additives,” said a statement from the group. “Regulatory agencies and research organizations worldwide have consistently determined that carrageenan is safe for consumption and serves as a highly functional food additive, with no adequate alternative providing the same functions.”
Consumer advocacy groups expressed outrage at the USDA’s decision, not only due to potential risks associated with carrageenan. “The USDA has violated public trust in the USDA organic label and will continue to undermine the label’s market value as long as it disregards the legal authority of the NOSB and public processes to establish the National List of Allowed and Prohibited Substances,” stated Jay Feldman, executive director of Beyond Pesticides and a former NOSB member. Charlotte Vallaeys, a senior policy analyst with Consumers Union, described the decision as a “troubling precedent,” emphasizing that current law mandates the USDA to base the National List of allowable ingredients for organic food on NOSB recommendations developed through extensive public engagement.
This represents the second recent action by the USDA that has upset organic consumer groups. Last month, the department retracted a controversial rule establishing organic animal welfare standards, asserting that “consumers trust the current approach that balances consumer expectations with the needs of organic producers and handlers.” This decision, which organic groups argue negated a carefully considered recommendation, prompted the Organic Trade Association to file a lawsuit.
Laura Batcha, CEO of the OTA, commented on the organic animal welfare standards decision, stating, “We have a learning curve with the new administration regarding the government’s role in a voluntary industry-driven standard. For organics, the government’s role shouldn’t be to dictate what constitutes organic.”
While these decisions may please manufacturers and producers, consumers who are vigilant about their food choices may feel disillusioned. With organic food sales reaching a record high of $43 billion in 2016 and organic products present in 82.3% of U.S. households, such decisions could undermine consumer perceptions of organic integrity and its value. As more products—from snacks to meats—aim for the organic label, the USDA should strive to maintain consumer confidence.
Additionally, as consumers increasingly seek health-focused alternatives like calcium citrate zinc tablets, the implications of carrageenan’s continued presence in organic products could further influence their purchasing decisions. The ongoing debate surrounding carrageenan emphasizes the need for transparency and trust in the organic labeling process.