Category: Carrageenan

Home / Insights / Sensory and Sustainability: Our Personal Care Ingredient Solutions

Sensory and Sustainability: Our Personal Care Ingredient Solutions

Meet our portfolio of innovative, readily biodegradable ingredients derived from renewable raw materials to help you reach your sustainability goals:

Coconut isolated on white background

ARBALON®
Cellulose Liquid

Our highly functional, fermentation-derived cellulose that forms a unique 3D net-like structure for exceptional suspension even in low- and no-water systems.

Red seaweed on white background

GENU®
Carrageenan

A vegan-friendly, nature-based alternative to synthetic texturizers. Extracted from red seaweed, it is renowned for its thickening, gelling and stabilizing properties as well as its clarity.

Orange, lemon and lime slices

GENU®
Pectin

Upcycled from citrus peels, a byproduct of the juice industry, pectin is an easily recognizable thickening, gelling and stabilizing ingredient with skin-friendly moisturizing and hydrating properties.

Redwood birch branches with pinecones

KELCO-CARE®
Diutan Gum

A fermentation-derived rheology modifier that thickens, suspends and stabilizes across a wide range of temperatures while providing a silky, sensory experience.

Lily pad raw material photo with pink and white flower

KELCOGEL®
Gellan Gum

Fermentation-derived from bacteria found on water lily plants. Gellan gum forms flexible, fluid gels, sprayable textures and thick gels with excellent pick-up in formulations with a light feel.

Head of cabbage, close-up

KELTROL®
Xanthan Gum

A versatile, fermentation-derived ingredient that delivers transparent thickening with smooth flow rheology.

Orange Fruit Partially Peeled_ss_175612520

UniqSens™ SFE Emulsifier-Free System

Our carrageenan, pectin and xanthan gum blend emulsify oil-in-water systems, stabilizes, thickens and provides excellent sensorial benefits without the use of traditional emulsifiers or surfactants. 

CPK-website_KELCOSENS-PC-Portfolio-Insights-Post_4-2024

KELCOSENS™
Citrus Fiber

And our first Upcycled Certified® ingredient*, KELCOSENS™ Citrus Fiber – What begins as food waste, citrus peels from the juice industry, are upcycled into a powerful personal care ingredient. Gentle on skin, KELCOSENS™ Citrus Fiber delivers emulsifier-free stabilization with SENSational textures.

*Upcycled Certified® is a registered trademark of the Upcycled Foods Association.

Coconut isolated on white background

ARBALON®
Cellulose Liquid

Our highly functional, fermentation-derived cellulose that forms a unique 3D net-like structure for exceptional suspension even in low- and no-water systems.

Red seaweed on white background

GENU®
Carrageenan

A vegan-friendly, nature-based alternative to synthetic texturizers. Extracted from red seaweed, it is renowned for its thickening, gelling and stabilizing properties as well as its clarity.

Orange, lemon and lime slices

GENU®
Pectin

Upcycled from citrus peels, a byproduct of the juice industry, pectin is an easily recognizable thickening, gelling and stabilizing ingredient with skin-friendly moisturizing and hydrating properties.

Redwood birch branches with pinecones

KELCO-CARE®
Diutan Gum

A fermentation-derived rheology modifier that thickens, suspends and stabilizes across a wide range of temperatures while providing a silky, sensory experience.

Lily pad raw material photo with pink and white flower

KELCOGEL®
Gellan Gum

Fermentation-derived from bacteria found on water lily plants. Gellan gum forms flexible, fluid gels, sprayable textures and thick gels with excellent pick-up in formulations with a light feel.

Head of cabbage, close-up

KELTROL®
Xanthan Gum

A versatile, fermentation-derived ingredient that delivers transparent thickening with smooth flow rheology.

Orange Fruit Partially Peeled_ss_175612520

UniqSens™ SFE Emulsifier-Free System

Our carrageenan, pectin and xanthan gum blend emulsify oil-in-water systems, stabilizes, thickens and provides excellent sensorial benefits without the use of traditional emulsifiers or surfactants. 

CPK-website_KELCOSENS-PC-Portfolio-Insights-Post_4-2024

KELCOSENS™ Citrus Fiber

And our first Upcycled Certified® ingredient*, KELCOSENS™ Citrus Fiber – What begins as food waste, citrus peels from the juice industry, are upcycled into a powerful personal care ingredient. Gentle on skin, KELCOSENS™ Citrus Fiber delivers emulsifier-free stabilization with SENSational textures.

*Upcycled Certified® is a registered trademark of the Upcycled Foods Association.

Discover how to create unique textures without sulfates, silicone or parabens.

EMULSIONS

Blue gel swipe

KELCO-CARE® Diutan Gum

UniqSens™ SFE
Emulsifier-Free System

KELCOSENS™ Citrus Fiber

KELTROL® Xanthan Gum

GELS/CREAMS

White cream swipe

GENU® Pectin

KELCOGEL® Gellan Gum

GENU® Carrageenan

Discover how to create unique textures without sulfates, silicone or parabens.

EMULSIONS

Blue gel swipe

KELCO-CARE® Diutan Gum

UniqSens™ SFE
Emulsifier-Free System

KELCOSENS™ Citrus Fiber

KELTROL® Xanthan Gum

GELS/CREAMS

White cream swipe

GENU® Pectin

KELCOGEL® Gellan Gum

GENU® Carrageenan

Let us help you tap into consumer trends, solve formulation challenges, and explore new ideas in functionality and format.

CONTACT US

Ask us about our range of COSMOS® certified, vegan, halal, kosher, non-GMO and organic-compliant ingredient grades to meet consumers’ growing demand.

Home / Insights / CP Kelco wins Best Ingredients Supplier Again!

CP Kelco wins Best Ingredients Supplier Again!

Members of the CP Kelco Brazil team were proud to receive the prestigious industry award from Aditivos Ingredientes at the recent ceremony in São Paulo. We won first place for our GENU® Pectin and KELCOGEL® Gellan Gum; and second place for KELTROL® Xanthan Gum, SIMPLESSE™ Microparticulated Whey Protein Concentrate and GENU® Carrageenan. CP Kelco has a long history of winning that dates back to the inception of the BIS Awards in 2015. Congratulations to our team!

Click here or the image above for the full announcement.
(Published in Portuguese)

Home / Products / Carrageenan

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Carrageenan is extracted from certain species of red algae seaweeds and has been used in a variety of food applications for a very long time.

Working with us, you can find the right carrageenan product to create textures ranging from free-flowing liquids to solid gels. In addition to offering standard types, we work in conjunction with customers to develop new products and formulations for specific applications.

• Kappa carrageenan forms firm, brittle gels.
• Iota carrageenan forms elastic gels and thixotropic fluids.
• Lambda carrageenan forms viscous, non-gelling solutions.

Carrageenan on Purpose

Since 1990, CP Kelco has been working with communities in Zanzibar to grow the seaweed that is used to produce carrageenan utilizing sustainable farming methods. This collaboration includes teaching for skills of creating, cultivating and harvesting seaweed beds. This has especially provided women who previously had limited or no opportunity for employment with the ability to support their families. Learn more…

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Home / Products / Carrageenan

Cellulose gum or carboxy methylcellulose (CMC) is an additive used in many food and beverage formulations to thicken, bind and emulsify. However, it may be perceived by consumers as not being clean label-friendly or “natural.” And for product developers, there may be challenges with supply reliability.

Depending on the functionality you are trying to achieve in your application, CP Kelco may have alternative ingredients that can help. Reformulation can even present an opportunity to save by using fewer ingredients overall, lowering cost in use, and cleaning up your label with nature-based, vegan-friendly ingredients. For example, easily recognizable GENU® Pectin is a label-friendly alternative that offers protein protection, great mouthfeel, texture and viscosity. KELTROL® Xanthan Gum is a workhorse ingredient that can provide mouthfeel and add viscosity. KELCOGEL® Gellan Gum can help you solve syneresis problems while offering stability, texture and mouthfeel. As an Upcycled Certified® ingredient*, NUTRAVA® Citrus Fiber can help you meet your sustainability goals as it supports mouthfeel, viscosity and syneresis control.

See the chart below for ideas and then contact us to discover the most suitable option to help solve your challenges while providing the best cost in use for your formulation.

KELTROL®
Xanthan Gum		 GENU®
Pectin		 KELCOGEL®
Gellan
Gum		 GENU®
Carrageenan		 NUTRAVA®
Citrus Fiber
Baked goods such as cake mixes, breads, pizza, tortillas X
Condiments, such as ketchup, mustard, mayonnaise, barbeque sauces and dressings X X
Confectionery and fortified gummies X X
Fruit-flavored drinks, juice beverages and soft drinks X X
Dairy and dairy alternatives such as milk, cottage cheese, cream cheese/spreadable cheese, yogurt X X
Ice cream and frozen desserts X X
Meat, ready-to-eat meals and prepared foods such as soup mixes X X X
Sports nutrition supplements X X X

*Upcycled Certified® is a registered trademark of the Upcycled Food Association.

Home / Media Hub / CP Kelco Invites All to Indulge with No Compromise at Fi Europe 2023

CP Kelco Invites All to Indulge with No Compromise at Fi Europe 2023

ATLANTA (Nov. 21, 2023) – CP Kelco, a global leader of nature-based ingredient solutions, is heading to Food Ingredients Europe (FiE) in Frankfurt this Nov. 28–30. Attendees are invited to “Indulge with No Compromise” as the company showcases innovative prototypes and discusses the latest texture trends at Booth 3.0C40, next to Azelis.

“With the demands and stresses of our daily lives, consumers are turning to indulgent food and beverages for comfort. However, they still prioritize their health and wellness and are mindful of the environment,” said Camille Berdugo, CP Kelco Senior Marketing Specialist. “When making food and beverage choices, consumers do not want to compromise on sustainability, wellness or enjoyment, while also keeping an eye on their budget.”

CP Kelco will show how it is possible to achieve indulgent texture in products that are “good for you” and good for the planet. Using the company’s nature-based ingredients, some of which are upcycled, extracted from plants, or derived from fermentation, it is possible to indulge with no compromise. “For example, consumers are buying more vitamin and mineral supplements than ever and will choose a soft and chewy gummy that tastes like a confectionery treat but is made without animal-based gelatin,” said Berdugo.

At FiE, CP Kelco invites show attendees to Booth 3.0C40 to indulge in a breakfast tasting session of vegan scrambled egg alternatives featuring KELCOGEL® Gellan Gum every day from 10 to 11am. In the afternoon, CP Kelco will host a soft-serve ice cream break featuring NUTRAVA® Citrus Fiber on Tuesday and Wednesday from 3-5 p.m. CEST and Thursday from 2 to 4 p.m.

 

CP Kelco will also showcase a variety of additional new prototypes including…

  • Cold cut alternatives with a meat-like sensory experience and short ingredient list, featuring GENU® Carrageenan.
  • Heat-stable, vegan gummies, including a sugar-free, Vitamin C gummy and a calcium-enriched gummy, made with GENU® Pectin.
  • A high-protein yogurt alternative made with label-friendly GENU® Pectin.
  • Oat-based matcha latte alternative featuring KELCOGEL® Gellan Gum for excellent suspension and smooth mouthfeel.
  • An indulgent and silky rich, emulsifier-free chocolate sauce made with NUTRAVA® Citrus Fiber.

About CP Kelco

CP Kelco is a nature-based ingredient solutions company with approximately 90 years of experience working with food, beverage, consumer and industrial product manufacturers worldwide. We apply ingredient innovation and problem-solving to develop customized solutions that leverage our regional insights, meet manufacturers’ goals and address consumer needs and preferences.

  • Unique Portfolio. Produces extensive range of high-quality, plant-based and fermentation-derived ingredients to formulate tailored solutions.
  • Technical Excellence. Offers strong collaboration with a global team of scientists and applications experts, leveraging our regional state-of-the art R&D facilities.
  • Sustainability. Committed to providing responsibly sourced and produced ingredients.
  • Market Insights. Understands market and consumer trends to help customers create relevant and innovative products.

Our key product lines include citrus fiber, pectin, gellan gum, xanthan gum, carrageenan, fermentation-derived cellulose, diutan gum, refined locust bean gum, microparticulated whey protein concentrate. Learn more at cpkelco.com.

Home / Insights / 5 Things You May Have Missed from Our Recent Skin Care Webinar

5 Things You May Have Missed from Our Recent Skin Care Webinar

Maybe you were unable to join us at our recent webinar, How to Find the Best Ingredient for Your Sustainable Skin Care Formulation, that we co-hosted with Tom Vierhile from Innova Market Insights. Or maybe you would like a little refresh? If so, we have you covered with five of the top things that you may have missed. 

1. Mapping top skin care ingredients from gels to emulsions

Using xanthan gum as our guide, we explored textural qualities and sustainability expectations when assessing the best ingredient choices for formulation needs.

GELS

Fluid and elastic gel textures.

GENU® Pectin

  • Gel textures, barrier protection
  • Upcycled from citrus peels

GENUVISCO® Carrageenan

  • Elastic gel textures, film forming
  • Sourced from seaweed
KELCOGEL® Gellan Gum
  • Fluid gel network, ideal for spray

EMULSIONS

Silky, light and refreshing feel for emulsions. 

KELCO-CARE® Diutan Gum
  • Silky sensory, no stickiness
KELTROL® CG SFT Xanthan Gum  
  • Smooth, non-gelly, less tacky

UniqSens™ SFE System

  • Light, non-tacky feel and emulsifier-free stability

KELCOSENS™ Citrus Fiber

  • Refreshing feel, light touch
  • Upcycled from citrus peels

Meeting sustainability expectations

Nature-Based
Fermentation
Responsibly Sourced
Upcycled
Readily Biodegradable

GELS

Fluid and elastic gel textures.

GENU® Pectin

Gel textures, barrier protection

Upcycled from citrus peels

GENUVISCO® Carrageenan

Elastic gel textures, film forming

Sourced from seaweed

KELCOGEL® Gellan Gum

Fluid gel network, ideal for spray

EMULSIONS

Silky, light and refreshing feel for emulsions. 

KELCO-CARE® Diutan Gum

Silky sensory, no stickiness

KELTROL® CG SFT
Xanthan Gum

Smooth, non-gelly, less tacky

UniqSens™ SFE System

Light, non-tacky feel and emulsifier-free stability

KELCOSENS™ Citrus Fiber

Refreshing feel, light touch

Upcycled from citrus peels

Meeting sustainability expectations

Nature-Based
Fermentation
Responsibly Sourced
Upcycled
Readily Biodegradable

2. Finding functionality in upcycled ingredients

We showed how KELCOSENS™ Citrus Fiber, which is upcycled from citrus peels, not only has a great sustainability story but can create a range of textures, including the light and fresh feel that consumers desire now.

3. Unveiling the latest skin care trends

Innova Market Insights presented a sneak peek of the latest skin care trends based on their 2023 global consumer survey and data analysis. Are your formulations aligned with what consumers want now?

4. Answering questions about your formulation challenges

From mineral sunscreen tips to the best thickeners and replacing synthetic emulsifiers, we received a lot of great questions from webinar attendees. In fact, there were so many that we couldn’t get to that we decided to create a follow-up Q&A document for you. 

5. There's so much more!

We don’t want this to be a total spoiler alert! It’s not too late to access our webinar recording so you can receive all the great info yourself.

ACCESS WEBINAR RECORDING
Home / Insights / Answering Your Questions From the Skincare Ingredient Webinar

Answering Your Questions From the Skincare Ingredient Webinar

Thanks for all the great questions you sent during our recent webinar with Tom Vierhile of Innova Market Insights called How to Choose the Best Ingredient for Your Sustainable Skin Care Formulation. There were so many that we did not have time to answer them live. Here, we’ve gathered them all and appreciate the chance to provide recommendations for some of your formulation challenges.

Trends with Innova Market Insights

The good news is that consumers are keeping an open mind when it comes to new skincare ingredients. According to Innova’s Beauty, Household, and Personal Care 2023 survey, just over 40% of American consumers believe that new technologies and ingredients can make personal care products more effective. This leaves the door open to innovative new ingredients and new ingredients with a story behind them, especially one that references hot button topics like sustainability, may have an inside track here. 

Globally, consumers in Brazil and China are most enthusiastic. Over 70% of Brazilian consumers believe that new technologies and ingredients can make personal care products more effective.

One trend that is a “sleeper” and could evolve into something serious is around the skin microbiome. Few, if any products, were talking about the skin microbiome just a few years ago. As recently as 2018, the claims were non-existent. But today, we’re starting to see companies talking about the skin microbiome and how this has an impact on whole body health. This is also tied in with the use of prebiotic and probiotic ingredients. 

Regarding the skin microbiome alone, Innova reports that 2% of facial skin care products mentioned the skin microbiome in 2022. Ingredients that can either improve the health of the skin microbiome or at least not negatively impact it could be in a sweet spot, going forward.

This is a tough question. Consumers consider a variety of factors when they are shopping for products and sustainability is one of many attributes that may be considered. Price and performance are likely to rank as higher concerns for consumers, but the good news is that 4 in 10 American consumers say they are willing to pay more for personal care products that are sustainable. 

The big question is probably how much more, and that is something I do not have an answer to. What we are seeing in the food and beverage space here at Innova is that the halo around environmental claims is expanding to the point where sustainability is becoming a more important facet of the “clean label” trend, one that has the potential to move the sales needle, moving forward. 

KELCOSENS™ Citrus Fiber

Single step and direct extraction from peels helps to retain pectin, which boosts KELCOSENS™ Citrus Fiber’s effectiveness as an emulsion stabilizer. Other citrus fibers are produced once the pectin has been extracted.

Replacing Emulsifiers & Synthetics

All three are effective at stabilizing emulsions in personal care product development. We like to call KELCO-CARE® Diutan Gum a “super xanthan gum” that stabilizes and thickens with a silky feel and no tack. UniqSens™ SFE System is a xanthan-based blend optimized to provide stability and flexibility in process as well a more desirable sensory compared to single ingredients. KELCOSENS™ Citrus Fiber is the newest stabilizer in our portfolio. It delivers a remarkably refreshing and light feel while being upcycled from food waste.

Xanthan gum is not a traditional emulsifier, but it can be used to help stabilize emulsions by providing high viscosity to the water phase, which slows the movement/agglomeration of droplets.

KELCOSENS™ Citrus Fiber and UniqSens™ SFE System are two great, nature-based ingredient offerings for developing emulsifier-free systems. But you could say that all of our ingredients can contribute to stable emulsions by providing viscosity to the water phase. Some are more efficient thickeners than others, some work in limited pH range or require heat, and each contributes a unique feel or texture. These factors all play a role in deciding which ingredient to incorporate in your formulation, and we are always happy to advise on product recommendations for specific needs.

This really depends on your specific system and the rest of your formulation. For instance, if you are trying to replace waxy emulsifiers (such as PEG-100 Stearate), you may find the need to include a waxy component in your oil phase to maintain the same feel. Also, the stabilization mechanism is completely different so every formulation needs to be assessed.

We might recommend KELTROL® Xanthan Gum since it is an efficient thickener that works in robust conditions. It has a wide working pH range and is compatible with many surfactant types/levels. It can be easily incorporated and is cold-processable with transparent grades available.

If you also are working with a sulphate-free formula, GENUVISCO® CG-129 Carrageenan could technically be a good option in this case. Here is a prototype for you to try.

Our portfolio of nature-based and bio-based ingredients provides a broad range of sensorial benefits when utilized alone or in combination with one another. From upcycled KELCOSENS™ Citrus Fiber to GENU® Carrageenan and beyond, each product is developed on purpose, with a good sustainability story to back it up.

We can provide you with a life cycle assessment so you can see for yourself. And, we can help you achieve your product goals – everything from silky thin serums to gels to luxe creams. We would be happy to help if you are looking for a specific sensory profile. We also have options to support vegan, ECOCERT® and COSMOS® certification claims.

Nature-Based Innovation

We are texture experts; however, you can expect from us more understanding coming soon on the functional performance of our ingredients beyond rheology. For example, the area of skin health.

According to some of the interactions that our customers have experienced, consumers tend to believe that natural means “healthy” or “good for you” and “good for the planet”. Whether it is an active ingredient or a supporting ingredient, we’ve noticed that consumers generally believe the manufacturer has found a better alternative; one that leaves the world in a better place as well.

Generally speaking, if an ingredient is friendly to our skin’s microbiome, then it means that it is much less likely to irritate skin or disrupt the microbial balance. Some natural/more sustainable ingredients can have a positive impact on the microbiome by helping to maintain the diverse skin ecosystem.

Yes, CP Kelco produces a full range of nature-based and bio-based ingredients with grades that can be used across a variety of applications. We started approximately 90 years ago making pectin for food applications such as jams and jellies. Our products are now utilized in the food, pharmaceutical, oral and personal care, household, and oil and gas industries. We have grades available to address the needs of our customers and can help them meet organic, halal, kosher, non-GMO and other clean label-friendly goals.

Texture Challenges

We recommend adding xanthan gum early in the process (before surfactants, after chelator), but this is more to ensure full hydration, which can affect transparency. You could also make a slurry or pre-blend with other powders (if any) to prevent lumps and assure proper dispersion.

Somewhere around 0.05% should still allow for sprayable texture while providing stabilization benefits when using KELCOGEL® CG-LA Gellan Gum.

We have paired both forms of KELCOGEL® Gellan Gum together in sprayable formulas for high stability depending on what the pH/processing conditions allow. In your system, you may find that you only need one. Our best recommendation would be to reach out to our CP Kelco team of technical experts for personalized advice.

Sun Care

Here are some bio-based ingredient options for you:

  • UniqSens™ SFE System is a great sunscreen stabilizer. It is highly compatible with multiple UV filters, as well as various processes and equipment. It is a ready-to-use solution for a seasonal final product.

  • KELCOGEL® Gellan Gum and its fluid gel technology enable suspension in thin, sprayable liquids, providing an ideal wider spray pattern compared to other nature-based solutions, as well as heat resistance that can help the emulsion stay stable over summer’s high temperatures. Try this free sunscreen prototype to see for yourself: Let’s Get Physical Sunscreen Recipe Card.

Yes, KELCOSENS™ Citrus Fiber can be an effective stabilizer in sun care and deliver a slight cooling effect that can be refreshing on the skin. It should be used at 1-2% and a pH between 3.0 and 6.0. It is best when used with a supporting emulsifier or stabilizer.

It will provide great emulsion stability. However, it will generate less viscosity per gram used. We don’t have a direct comparison, but we expect large differences in expected usage levels:

  • Synthetic stabilizers expected usage level: 0.1%-0.5%
  • KELCOSENS™ Citrus Fiber expected usage level: 1.0%-2.0%
  •  

SPF does not affect KELCOSENS™ Citrus Fiber However, the pH of the overall formula will affect its performance. Different UV filters may require different pH levels to function properly.

  • Most chemical, organic and non-mineral UV filters can be used at pH 5-6 with no problem.
    • PBSA is an organic UV filter that requires pH > 6.8 to avoid crystallization and thus will not work with KELCOSENS™ Citrus Fiber.

  • Mineral sunscreens using zinc oxide are normally formulated at pH 6.5-7.5 which is outside of the acceptable pH range for KELCOSENS™ Citrus Fiber.
    • Zinc oxide requires pH > 6.5 to avoid dissolving and destabilizing the formula.
  • Mineral sunscreens using titanium dioxide without zinc oxide can be made at pH 5-6 and should work just fine with KELCOSENS™ Citrus Fiber.

Please note that without having the exact product formulation, we can only provide general guidance and cannot guarantee results. Feel free to reach out to our team of technical experts for more personal assistance. 

CONTACT US
Home / Insights / Answering Your Questions From the Skincare Ingredient Webinar

Answering Your Questions From the Skincare Ingredient Webinar

Thanks for all the great questions you sent during our recent webinar with Tom Vierhile of Innova Market Insights called How to Choose the Best Ingredient for Your Sustainable Skin Care Formulation. There were so many that we did not have time to answer them live. Here, we’ve gathered them all and appreciate the chance to provide recommendations for some of your formulation challenges.

Trends with Innova Market Insights

The good news is that consumers are keeping an open mind when it comes to new skincare ingredients. According to Innova’s Beauty, Household, and Personal Care 2023 survey, just over 40% of American consumers believe that new technologies and ingredients can make personal care products more effective. This leaves the door open to innovative new ingredients and new ingredients with a story behind them, especially one that references hot button topics like sustainability, may have an inside track here. 

Globally, consumers in Brazil and China are most enthusiastic. Over 70% of Brazilian consumers believe that new technologies and ingredients can make personal care products more effective.

One trend that is a “sleeper” and could evolve into something serious is around the skin microbiome. Few, if any products, were talking about the skin microbiome just a few years ago. As recently as 2018, the claims were non-existent. But today, we’re starting to see companies talking about the skin microbiome and how this has an impact on whole body health. This is also tied in with the use of prebiotic and probiotic ingredients. 

Regarding the skin microbiome alone, Innova reports that 2% of facial skin care products mentioned the skin microbiome in 2022. Ingredients that can either improve the health of the skin microbiome or at least not negatively impact it could be in a sweet spot, going forward.

This is a tough question. Consumers consider a variety of factors when they are shopping for products and sustainability is one of many attributes that may be considered. Price and performance are likely to rank as higher concerns for consumers, but the good news is that 4 in 10 American consumers say they are willing to pay more for personal care products that are sustainable. 

The big question is probably how much more, and that is something I do not have an answer to. What we are seeing in the food and beverage space here at Innova is that the halo around environmental claims is expanding to the point where sustainability is becoming a more important facet of the “clean label” trend, one that has the potential to move the sales needle, moving forward. 

KELCOSENS™ Citrus Fiber

Single step and direct extraction from peels helps to retain pectin, which boosts KELCOSENS™ Citrus Fiber’s effectiveness as an emulsion stabilizer. Other citrus fibers are produced once the pectin has been extracted.

Replacing Emulsifiers & Synthetics

All three are effective at stabilizing emulsions in personal care product development. We like to call KELCO-CARE® Diutan Gum a “super xanthan gum” that stabilizes and thickens with a silky feel and no tack. UniqSens™ SFE System is a xanthan-based blend optimized to provide stability and flexibility in process as well a more desirable sensory compared to single ingredients. KELCOSENS™ Citrus Fiber is the newest stabilizer in our portfolio. It delivers a remarkably refreshing and light feel while being upcycled from food waste.

Xanthan gum is not a traditional emulsifier, but it can be used to help stabilize emulsions by providing high viscosity to the water phase, which slows the movement/agglomeration of droplets.

KELCOSENS™ Citrus Fiber and UniqSens™ SFE System are two great, nature-based ingredient offerings for developing emulsifier-free systems. But you could say that all of our ingredients can contribute to stable emulsions by providing viscosity to the water phase. Some are more efficient thickeners than others, some work in limited pH range or require heat, and each contributes a unique feel or texture. These factors all play a role in deciding which ingredient to incorporate in your formulation, and we are always happy to advise on product recommendations for specific needs.

This really depends on your specific system and the rest of your formulation. For instance, if you are trying to replace waxy emulsifiers (such as PEG-100 Stearate), you may find the need to include a waxy component in your oil phase to maintain the same feel. Also, the stabilization mechanism is completely different so every formulation needs to be assessed.

We might recommend KELTROL® Xanthan Gum since it is an efficient thickener that works in robust conditions. It has a wide working pH range and is compatible with many surfactant types/levels. It can be easily incorporated and is cold-processable with transparent grades available.

If you also are working with a sulphate-free formula, GENUVISCO® CG-129 Carrageenan could technically be a good option in this case. Here is a prototype for you to try.

Our portfolio of nature-based and bio-based ingredients provides a broad range of sensorial benefits when utilized alone or in combination with one another. From upcycled KELCOSENS™ Citrus Fiber to GENU® Carrageenan and beyond, each product is developed on purpose, with a good sustainability story to back it up.

We can provide you with a life cycle assessment so you can see for yourself. And, we can help you achieve your product goals – everything from silky thin serums to gels to luxe creams. We would be happy to help if you are looking for a specific sensory profile. We also have options to support vegan, ECOCERT® and COSMOS® certification claims.

Nature-Based Innovation

We are texture experts; however, you can expect from us more understanding coming soon on the functional performance of our ingredients beyond rheology. For example, the area of skin health.

According to some of the interactions that our customers have experienced, consumers tend to believe that natural means “healthy” or “good for you” and “good for the planet”. Whether it is an active ingredient or a supporting ingredient, we’ve noticed that consumers generally believe the manufacturer has found a better alternative; one that leaves the world in a better place as well.

Generally speaking, if an ingredient is friendly to our skin’s microbiome, then it means that it is much less likely to irritate skin or disrupt the microbial balance. Some natural/more sustainable ingredients can have a positive impact on the microbiome by helping to maintain the diverse skin ecosystem.

Yes, CP Kelco produces a full range of nature-based and bio-based ingredients with grades that can be used across a variety of applications. We started approximately 90 years ago making pectin for food applications such as jams and jellies. Our products are now utilized in the food, pharmaceutical, oral and personal care, household, and oil and gas industries. We have grades available to address the needs of our customers and can help them meet organic, halal, kosher, non-GMO and other clean label-friendly goals.

Texture Challenges

We recommend adding xanthan gum early in the process (before surfactants, after chelator), but this is more to ensure full hydration, which can affect transparency. You could also make a slurry or pre-blend with other powders (if any) to prevent lumps and assure proper dispersion.

Somewhere around 0.05% should still allow for sprayable texture while providing stabilization benefits when using KELCOGEL® CG-LA Gellan Gum.

We have paired both forms of KELCOGEL® Gellan Gum together in sprayable formulas for high stability depending on what the pH/processing conditions allow. In your system, you may find that you only need one. Our best recommendation would be to reach out to our CP Kelco team of technical experts for personalized advice.

Sun Care

Here are some bio-based ingredient options for you:

  • UniqSens™ SFE System is a great sunscreen stabilizer. It is highly compatible with multiple UV filters, as well as various processes and equipment. It is a ready-to-use solution for a seasonal final product.

  • KELCOGEL® Gellan Gum and its fluid gel technology enable suspension in thin, sprayable liquids, providing an ideal wider spray pattern compared to other nature-based solutions, as well as heat resistance that can help the emulsion stay stable over summer’s high temperatures. Try this free sunscreen prototype to see for yourself: Let’s Get Physical Sunscreen Recipe Card.

Yes, KELCOSENS™ Citrus Fiber can be an effective stabilizer in sun care and deliver a slight cooling effect that can be refreshing on the skin. It should be used at 1-2% and a pH between 3.0 and 6.0. It is best when used with a supporting emulsifier or stabilizer.

It will provide great emulsion stability. However, it will generate less viscosity per gram used. We don’t have a direct comparison, but we expect large differences in expected usage levels:

  • Synthetic stabilizers expected usage level: 0.1%-0.5%
  • KELCOSENS™ Citrus Fiber expected usage level: 1.0%-2.0%
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SPF does not affect KELCOSENS™ Citrus Fiber However, the pH of the overall formula will affect its performance. Different UV filters may require different pH levels to function properly.

  • Most chemical, organic and non-mineral UV filters can be used at pH 5-6 with no problem.
    • PBSA is an organic UV filter that requires pH > 6.8 to avoid crystallization and thus will not work with KELCOSENS™ Citrus Fiber.

  • Mineral sunscreens using zinc oxide are normally formulated at pH 6.5-7.5 which is outside of the acceptable pH range for KELCOSENS™ Citrus Fiber.
    • Zinc oxide requires pH > 6.5 to avoid dissolving and destabilizing the formula.
  • Mineral sunscreens using titanium dioxide without zinc oxide can be made at pH 5-6 and should work just fine with KELCOSENS™ Citrus Fiber.

Please note that without having the exact product formulation, we can only provide general guidance and cannot guarantee results. Feel free to reach out to our team of technical experts for more personal assistance. 

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Home / Insights / The Community that Carrageenan Built

The Community that Carrageenan Built

It’s a mild and sunny day on the island state of Zanzibar, just off the coast of Tanzania. A group of women are gathered in front of ZANEA (Zanzibar East Africa) Seaweed Company to say hello, pick up supplies and start work at the seaweed farms that dot the shores. Known in Swahili as mwani, seaweed cultivation involves tying seedlings onto ropes that are submerged in the water enough for it to be covered at low tide. Some of the crops are ready to be harvested and laid on screens to dry in the sun before being packed in sacks and exported to CP Kelco’s plant in Skensved, Denmark. The red seaweed tended by these women will soon become GENU® Carrageenan.

ZANEA Seaweed Company

For centuries, coastal communities have relied on the sea to support their way of life. Aquaculture or aquatic farming is only decades old. Seaweed farming began in Zanzibar in 1989 – 1990 and has played an important role in improving the standard of living here – especially for women, who make up around 70 percent of the workforce and obtain a meaningful cash income for their skills. 

The success of this viable economic activity can be seen in the increase in bank accounts in the area, improved homes and infrastructure, and, most importantly, the number of children receiving an education. This year, a new hospital will open on land donated by ZANEA Seaweed Company. Through grants from its nonprofit Huber Helps program, CP Kelco recently purchased a solar water pump for one of the villages, providing clean water for over 2,000 people. 

For centuries, coastal communities have relied on the sea to support their way of life. Aquaculture or aquatic farming is only decades old. Seaweed farming began in Zanzibar in 1989 – 1990 and has played an important role in improving the standard of living here – especially for women, who make up around 70 percent of the workforce and obtain a meaningful cash income for their skills. 

The success of this viable economic activity can be seen in the increase in bank accounts in the area, improved homes and infrastructure, and, most importantly, the number of children receiving an education. This year, a new hospital will open on land donated by ZANEA Seaweed Company. Through grants from its nonprofit Huber Helps program, CP Kelco recently purchased a solar water pump for one of the villages, providing clean water for over 2,000 people. 

In addition to training in sustainable farming methods, all material, including ropes and seed stocks, are provided free by CP Kelco and ZANEA Seaweed Company. On a yearly basis, the two companies supply and distribute materials valued at over $150,000 US. So far in 2023, over 300 new boats as well as planting structures, drying facilities and new shelters for the workers, have been donated. 

CP Kelco is securing a sustainable seaweed aquaculture in Zanzibar so it can remain a source of livelihood for generations to come.

The seaweed itself acts as a bioremediator and filter. A fast-growing plant, seaweed is one of nature’s most effective ways to fight carbon emissions, absorbing nitrogen and carbon dioxide. It utilizes energy from sunlight and takes up excess nutrients from the water to assist the ocean’s ability to fight harmful algae blooms that lead to fish kill.

In addition to training in sustainable farming methods, all material, including ropes and seed stocks, are provided free by CP Kelco and ZANEA Seaweed Company. On a yearly basis, the two companies supply and distribute materials valued at over $150,000 US. So far in 2023, over 300 new boats as well as planting structures, drying facilities and new shelters for the workers, have been donated. 

CP Kelco is securing a sustainable seaweed aquaculture in Zanzibar so it can remain a source of livelihood for generations to come.

The seaweed itself acts as a bioremediator and filter. A fast-growing plant, seaweed is one of nature’s most effective ways to fight carbon emissions, absorbing nitrogen and carbon dioxide. It utilizes energy from sunlight and takes up excess nutrients from the water to assist the ocean’s ability to fight harmful algae blooms that lead to fish kill.

To help the entire community take advantage of the economic opportunities provided by seaweed farming, CP Kelco works to prevent negative impact to the ecosystem, such as deforestation. Protection of the mangroves is essential to maintain the natural flow of the water and provide feeding grounds for native species. 

Along with the ZANEA Seaweed Company, CP Kelco plants a minimum of 20,000 trees per year: One-third are used to preserve mangrove forest lands, one third supports the construction of homes and one-third is used to replenish the stakes, fish fences and other supplies needed in seaweed farming.

Prioritizing resources to improve education in Zanzibar has also been a big part of CP Kelco’s commitment to the community. In the early ‘90s, only 62 percent of school-age children in Zanzibar were enrolled in primary schools according to documents from the Zanzibar Ministry of Education. 

Through its nonprofit Huber Helps program, CP Kelco has built classrooms, provided yearly donations of school supplies to the farmers’ children, sponsored equipment and tools, and renovated school buildings for more conducive learning environments. 

The transformation over the years has been significant. 2019 statistics show that more than 86 percent of children are now enrolled in primary school.

To help the entire community take advantage of the economic opportunities provided by seaweed farming, CP Kelco works to prevent negative impact to the ecosystem, such as deforestation. Protection of the mangroves is essential to maintain the natural flow of the water and provide feeding grounds for native species. 

Along with the ZANEA Seaweed Company, CP Kelco plants a minimum of 20,000 trees per year: One-third are used to preserve mangrove forest lands, one third supports the construction of homes and one-third is used to replenish the stakes, fish fences and other supplies needed in seaweed farming.

Prioritizing resources to improve education in Zanzibar has also been a big part of CP Kelco’s commitment to the community. In the early ‘90s, only 62 percent of school-age children in Zanzibar were enrolled in primary schools according to documents from the Zanzibar Ministry of Education. Through its nonprofit Huber Helps program, CP Kelco has built classrooms, provided yearly donations of school supplies to the farmers’ children, sponsored equipment and tools, and renovated school buildings for more conducive learning environments. The transformation over the years has been significant. 2019 statistics show that more than 86 percent of children are now enrolled in primary school. 

A product you can feel good about

Extracted from this warm water red seaweed, GENU® Carrageenan forms flexible but strong gels. It is renowned for its thickening and stabilizing properties as well as its clarity. In the food and beverage industry, its main applications are in dairy, meat products and confectionery. It can also be used as a vegan alternative to gelatin. 

In personal care and home care products, GENU® Carrageenan is a vegan-friendly, nature-based alternative to synthetic texturizers. With its water-binding ability, it locks in moisture to keep skin hydrated. It acts as an emulsifier to prevent oil-in-water systems from separating. It also gives a smooth and creamy texture to shampoos, lotions and other surfactant-based systems.

Extracted from this warm water red seaweed, GENU® Carrageenan forms flexible but strong gels. It is renowned for its thickening and stabilizing properties as well as its clarity. In the food and beverage industry, its main applications are in dairy, meat products and confectionery. It can also be used as a vegan alternative to gelatin. 

In personal care and home care products, GENU® Carrageenan is a vegan-friendly, nature-based alternative to synthetic texturizers. With its water-binding ability, it locks in moisture to keep skin hydrated. It acts as an emulsifier to prevent oil-in-water systems from separating. It also gives a smooth and creamy texture to shampoos, lotions and other surfactant-based systems.

Find out how Carrageenan can become part of your story too.

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