Carrageenan: An undesirable or benign additive?

Carrageenan is derived from red seaweed and is often used as a gelling, thickening and stabilizing agent in dairy, liquid, and prepared-food products. It's a controversial additive, since nutritional purists claim it causes intestinal inflammation and isn't well-tolerated by the body, while advocates say it's a natural ingredient and of no undue concern. If you're concerned about carrageenan it's best to read the labels on food products and find out which use it. Here's a useful list from Cornucopia Institute for organic-certified products that add or omit carrageenan. The results are often surprising; with some companies appearing on both sides of the list within the same product category!