Agar-agar powder
Description
Agar-agar powder is a colorless or slightly creamy powder with a neutral, mildly marine aroma that, when dissolved and cooled, forms a transparent, firm, and brittle jelly with a higher melting point than gelatin. As an algal-derived product, it mainly consists of polysaccharides (fiber), is virtually calorie-free, contains no fat or cholesterol, and is often used as a plant-based substitute for gelatin; this fiber can support intestinal peristalsis and the feeling of fullness, as well as help regulate glucose and lipid levels with a balanced diet. In the kitchen, agar-agar is suitable for preparing vegan jellies, creams, panna cotta, desserts, clarifying broths, thickening jams and sauces, and in molecular techniques. It should be stored in a sealed, dry, and cool place, away from light and moisture; in this form, it retains its durability for a long time, and after opening, it is advisable to use airtight containers to avoid clumping.