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Agar

CAS Number
9002-18-0
EC Number
232-658-1
Molecular Weight
336.33 g/mol

Description

Agar (CAS 9002-18-0 ), also known as agar-agar, E406 , and gelose, is a natural polysaccharide derived from red algae used as a gelling and thickening agent across food, pharmaceutical, and biotechnology industries. Unlike gelatin, it sets firmly at room temperature and remains stable at higher temperatures, making it a preferred gelling system where thermal stability matters for industrial applications. In microbiology and life sciences, it is the standard solidifying agent for culture media used in bacterial and fungal growth studies. Food manufacturers use it to produce confectionery and dairy alternatives. It is ideal for plant-based desserts that require a firm, clean-label gel without animal-derived ingredients. Pharmaceutical formulators incorporate it into tablet coatings, laxative preparations, and controlled-release systems. Its gelling behavior supports consistent dosage performance in medical applications. In industrial bakery and processed food production, it stabilizes fillings, icings, and glazes against temperature fluctuation during distribution. The material is supplied as a powder or in strip form, with powder being the dominant commercial format. Recognized grades include food-grade, bacteriological grade, and USP or Ph.Eur. grades. These pharmaceutical grades ensure compliance for global distribution. Bacteriological-grade material is held to tighter purity standards for use in diagnostic and research media to ensure consistent results. Contact us for supply of Agar Request Quote

Other Names (Synonyms)

E406 | agar-agar | Gelose | Ceylon | Chinese gelatin | Japan isinglass | Bengal gelatin | Layor carang

Key Technical Features

  • High Purity Grade standard
  • Consistent Batch Quality
  • Full Regulatory & REACH Support
  • Global Logistics Network enabled

Physical Properties

Melting Point85-90 °C
Appearancewhite to pale yellow or tan crystalline powder, no odour
ColorBrownish yellow
OdorOdorless
Formshredded
Water SolubilitySOLUBLE IN HOT WATER
pH6.5-6.8 (1.5% in gel, after autoclaving)

Trade & Regulatory

HS Code13023100
Storage Class11 - Combustible Solids
WGK (Germany)2