Does agar have to be boiled before it is consumed?

Agar does not need to be boiled before consumption. It can be consumed raw in its powder form or as an ingredient in various dishes. Unlike gelatin, which is derived from animal sources and requires boiling to dissolve and set, agar is a plant-based gelling agent that can be used without heating. It is commonly used as a thickening or gelling agent in desserts, jams, jellies, soups, and other food preparations.