
MicrobiologyĪ petri dish is used to provide a growth medium using a mix of agar and other nutrients. Then, other sweeteners, colourings, and flavourings are added to them and poured into moulds before being served.Īgar-agar is approximately 80% dietary fibre and is also used as an intestinal regulator.

When making jelly, it is boiled until the solid dissolves. Culinary PurposesĪgar is used in jellies and custards. The melting point for gelatin is not fixed as it depends on its temperature. Gelatin absorbs about 5- 10 times its weight to form a gel. It can be dissolved in polar solvents like water, acetic acid and glycerol. Gelatin is also tasteless, odourless and sometimes colourless in appearance. It is ordinarily brittle when dry and rubbery when wet or moist. Gelatin is a signature ingredient in jellies and marshmallows and also in puddings. Since it can also be derived from bones, it contains a reasonable amount of calcium. Gelatin can be sold in powdered form in major health groceries stores.

Gelatin is a gelling and thickening agent from the skin, bones, ligaments and tendons of animals like cows, horses and even pigs. It has minimal health benefits as it’s low in calories, cholesterol and carbohydrate. Agar can be used in dishes like ice cream, custards and delicate dishes like cheesecake and panna cotta. Agar powder, flakes or bars can be found in health food supermarkets, majorly in countries like China, Japan, and Korea.Īgar helps stabilize gels and the thickening of beverages and baked foods. It is a popular vegan food substitute that replaces gelatin in vegan dishes. It has a gummy and chewy texture and is also used for edible gums. Agar-agar is majorly used in most Asian cuisines. What Is Agar Agar?Īgar is a jelly-like substance made from red algae. It’s worth noting that agar agar is a good substitute for gelatin as vegans commonly use it. The difference between agar agar vs gelatin is that agar agar is very suitable for vegans as it’s made with red algae, while gelatin is produced from animals and cannot be consumed by strict vegetarians. While gelatin is made from animals, agar agar comes from red algae.

This article may contain affiliate links and if you make a purchase after clicking on a link, we may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you.Īgar agar and gelatin both serve as gelling and thickening agents in various recipes.
