Status and Trends of Eucheumatoid and Carrageenan Production in China

Eucheumatoids are the main resources for carrageenan production in China and Southeast Asian countries, and many efforts have gone towards eucheumatoid seaweed cultivation and carrageenan production. In this chapter, we reviewed the status of eucheumatoid cultivation in China and pointed out problems that exist. We also summarized carrageenan extraction methods, quality and applications in China. Since the 1980s, eucheumatoid seaweed cultivation, including the genera Eucheuma and Kappaphycus, was started in China, and cultivation techniques have been sufficient for seaweed farmers to achieve some crop production, but annual production has declined since 2000. Nevertheless, with its huge market needs, carrageenan production has increased, and China is already ranked as the largest carrageenan producer in the world. Nevertheless, there are improvements that can be made in China’s carrageenan products and qualities. To accomplish this, multiple disciplines must be integrated for the analyses of the genetic, physiological and chemical properties of carrageenophyte red seaweeds. This will guarantee the sustainable development of eucheumatoid seaweed for the carrageenan industry of China.