from capsules and tablets to creams, gels, liquids and serums. Fucoidan is currently utilised in a wide range of products currently on the market such as dietary supplements, skincare products, medical devices, functional food and beverages and animal health products. Fucoidan is also utilised in medical and pharmaceutical research. Safety Clinical testing has confirmed that high purity, certified organic fucoidan extracts are safe for human consumption. Fucoidan is a natural seaweed compound that has been shown to be non-toxic and non-allergenic. In recent years certain fucoidan extracts have attained regulatory approvals in a number of global jurisdictions for use in food and dietary supplements. Some extracts from Undaria pinnatifida and Fucus vesiculosus seaweeds have been granted ‘Generally Recognised as Safe’ (GRAS) status with the US FDA and have also been approved as novel foods in the European Union. A 2019 review paper noted that not only do global regulatory approvals continue to expand, but so too does variation in the quality of commercially available extracts. Studies showed that some fucoidan preparations sold commercially for use in food and supplements may not contain fucoidan as stated. Some appear to be alternative polysaccharides, whilst others may be substituted with glucose or cellulose. Manufacturers are encouraged to verify the provenance and identity of their fucoidan ingredients before incorporating them into formulations and to purchase from reputable fucoidan producers. Sustainability Leading fucoidan producers demonstrate a strong commitment to the sustainable and ethical sourcing of seaweed from which to extract fucoidan. They are able to demonstrate quality and transparency across the supply chain, from the seaweed harvesting process through to fucoidan manufacturing methods, energy consumption, quality assurance and waste management. As the commercial use of seaweed gains momentum across the globe, and novel applications rise to the fore, it is important that sustainable management practices are maintained. Global fucoidan producers currently vary in their seaweed harvesting practices, locations and standards, including harvesting wild stocks vs farmed seaweeds, and harvesting in clean ocean waters vs those prone to various forms of contamination. See also Porphyran Phycocolloid References External links Refer to 69th Annual Meeting of the Japanese Cancer Association Refer to Fucoidan evidence Refer to Fucoidan Tsushin Specified non-profit juridical person（NPO） Cytotechnology（2005）47:117 126 Refer to NPO Research Institute of Fucoidan Dietary supplements Polysaccharides Brown algae