Agar Agar Powder (Vegan Gelatin Substitute)

Agar Agar Powder is the red-algae gelling agent that does the setting in our gummy method. Tapioca syrup and fruit syrup supply the body and flavor, but neither will firm up on its own. Agar is what turns the boiled syrup into a gummy that holds its shape at room temperature. Repacked here from bulk into 2 oz, 4 oz and 8 oz.

At a glance

• 100% agar agar powder from red algae
• Unflavored, vegan, non-GMO
• Sets firm at room temperature, no fridge needed
• About 1 teaspoon (2 g) sets 1 cup (240 ml) of liquid
• 2 oz, 4 oz and 8 oz

What it is. A plant gelling agent extracted from seaweed. It sets firmer than gelatin, melts at a higher temperature (around 85 C / 185 F), and needs no animal products. It has no taste of its own, so the gummy tastes like whatever syrup and extract you put in.

How to use it. Measure your liquid: tapioca syrup, fruit syrup and any water combined. Whisk in about 1 teaspoon (2 g) of agar per 1 cup (240 ml) while the liquid is still cold so it does not clump. Bring it to a full rolling boil and hold that boil for 2 minutes, stirring, so the agar dissolves completely. Take it off the heat, stir in your extract and citric acid, and pour into silicone square molds. It sets in about 30 to 60 minutes at room temperature. For a softer chew use a little less agar, for a firmer snap use a little more. Make a small test batch first.

Goes with. The Home Gummy Kit bundles the agar, both syrups, citric acid and two molds for less than buying them one at a time. Dust the molds with tapioca starch if they stick. More in Accessories and DIY Supplies.

Ingredients. Agar agar powder (red algae). Nothing else. Store sealed in a cool, dry place.

Common questions

• Can I reheat a batch that set before I poured it? Yes. Agar re-melts around 85 C (185 F) and sets again when it cools, with no loss of strength. Gelatin is the one that weakens with repeated heating, not agar.
• Why did my gummies stay soft? Almost always the boil was too short. Agar has to reach a full boil and hold it for 2 minutes to dissolve fully. Warming it or simmering briefly is not enough.

Disclaimer. Sold as a food ingredient. These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Keep out of reach of children.