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 within seconds. The calcium penetrates the alginate layer from the outside, solidifying it from the outside in until the calcium supply is stopped (by removing the product from the calcium bath) or the gel layer becomes too thick, preventing further calcium from reaching the core. This principle allows for the production of gel spheres of varying sizes with a liquid core, which burst in the mouth, instantly releasing specific flavor sensations. Hot alginate solutions only react with calcium upon cooling. Once the solid calcium-alginate structure has formed, it remains heat-stable. A disadvantage of alginates is their sensitivity to acids (caution is advised when using large amounts of lemon juice, vinegar, and/or wine reductions).