What is Agar Agar Powder Uses, Benefits, and Its Distinction from Nutrient Agar

If you’ve ever enjoyed a wobbly jelly dessert, used certain skincare products, chances are you’ve encountered agar agar. But what exactly is this mysterious substance? Let’s dive into the world of agar agar, exploring its origins, uses, and how it differs from a similar-sounding term: nutrient agar. What Is Agar Agar? Agar, often called agar agar (derived from the Malay word for seaweed), is a gelatinous substance extracted from specific species of red seaweed, primarily from the genera Gelidium and Gracilaria. Humans have used this natural thickener for centuries, with historical records tracing its use back to 17th-century Japan, where it was first developed as a commercial product. Today, it’s […]