Which carrageenan is used in cheetos and what the process?

Carrageenan is a thickening and gelling agent that is extracted from red seaweed. It is used in a variety of food products, including Cheetos.

The type of carrageenan used in Cheetos is called iota carrageenan. Iota carrageenan is a highly versatile hydrocolloid that can form gels, thicken liquids, and stabilize emulsions. It is also heat-stable, which makes it ideal for use in food products that are subjected to high temperatures, such as Cheetos.

The process of adding iota carrageenan to Cheetos begins with the preparation of a carrageenan solution. The carrageenan powder is dissolved in water at a high temperature, typically around 180 degrees Fahrenheit. The solution is then cooled and added to the Cheetos dough. The carrageenan helps to bind the dough together and gives it a chewy texture.

After the dough has been formed, it is cut into shapes and fried. The hot oil causes the carrageenan to gel, which gives Cheetos their characteristic crunch.

Carrageenan is a safe and natural food additive that has been used for centuries. It is an important ingredient in Cheetos and many other food products.