Seaweeds Invade The Shores Of China

Seaweeds are also harvested or cultivated for the extraction of alginate, agar and carrageenan, gelatinous substances collectively known as hydrocolloids or phycocolloids. Hydrocolloids have attained commercial significance as food additives. The food industry exploits their gelling, water-retention, emulsifying and other physical properties. Agar is used in foods such as confectionery, meat and poultry products, desserts and beverages and moulded foods. Carrageenan is used in salad dressings and sauces, dietetic foods, and as a preservative in meat and fish products, dairy items and baked goods.
Alginates are used in wound dressings, and production of dental moulds. In microbiology research, agar is extensively used as culture medium. Seaweed is a source of iodine, necessary for thyroid function and to prevent goitre. Excess intake of seaweed can raise iodine to toxic levels, however. Seaweeds may have curative properties for tuberculosis, arthritis, colds and influenza, worm infestations and even tumors. Seaweed extract is used in some diet pills. Other seaweed pills exploit the same effect as gastric banding, expanding in the stomach to make the body feel more full.