1. Marine Science: Algae and Its Derivatives
18 January 2019

2. Today’s Vocabulary
Algin
Agar
Carrageenan

3. Last Class…
You learned that algae was edible and that some needed significant preparation before they could be ingested
I also asked you to look and see what items algae is in, but some of you only scratched the surface
I’m going to look a little harder at some of the foods and items you use and like
I don’t think I’m going to ruin these things for you
But if I do, I’m not sorry

4. Algae Harvesting
Depending on the method of growth, harvesting algae can differ
If harvested from a sea bed: Sea kelp is harvested by using a mower. The mower cuts the top off the kelp off and the rest is left to grow.
This is similar to harvesting wheat, sugarcane and corn.
If done on a trowl line: The line is reeled in and the workers put in large containers to be sorted later (usually on larger boats)
This is similar to the fishing industry

5. Algae Derivatives
After processing, you can get one of three primary derivatives from algae:
Algin
Agar
Carrageenan

6. Algae Derivatives – Algin
Algin is an extract with a powdery composition and capable of absorbing large amounts of water
It is an additive in ice cream to prevent ice crystals from forming (freezer burn)
It can also be used to suspend antibiotics in solution, as the pigment in
paint…even as an ingredient in toothpaste

7. Algae Derivatives – Agar
Agar is a gel-like extract that results when you boil algae
It is used as a medium for bacteria growth
It is also used for processed/canned meats (Spam), gelatins and fish
and the glue on postage stamps

8. Algae Derivatives – Carrageenan
Carrageenan is an agent that helps to keep products suspended in solution
Basically, it keeps things that are supposed to be a liquid in liquid form
…Like pre-made chocolate milk and milk “alternatives”.
You can check that during lunch
It’s also found in cosmetics, toothpaste and ice cream

9. Announcements All grades will be fully-updated by this weekend
I am giving you the rest of class to finish working on your Discussion assignment if you did not start (it is due today)