Any of several derivatives of alginic acid (e.g., calcium, sodium, or potassium salts or propylene glycol alginate). They are hydrophilic colloids (hydrocolloids) obtained from seaweed. Sodium alginate is water soluble but reacts with calcium salts to form insoluble calcium alginate.
Use:
Food additive (thickener, stabilizer), yarns and fibers, medicine (first-aid dressings), meat substitute, high-protein food analogs.