Algizoon (sodium alginate), texturizer from Biozoon, E 401

Algizoon® consists of sodium alginate (E 401), a natural extract from brown algae. In the presence of calcium ions (Calazoon®), it forms a gel in a matter of seconds. The calcium penetrates the alginate layer from the outside and solidifies it from the outside in until the calcium supply is stopped (by removing it from the calcium bath) or the gelled layer is too thick and the calcium can no longer reach the core. Using this principle, gel balls of various sizes with a liquid core can be produced that burst in the eater`s mouth and can suddenly release certain taste sensations. Hot alginate solutions only react with calcium when they cool down. Once the solid calcium-alginate structure has formed, it is always heat-stable. The disadvantage of alginates is their sensitivity to acids (be careful with a lot of lemon juice, vinegar and/or wine reductions).