Agar Agar Powder from Pastry Star is a plant based gelling agent milled from Gracilaria seaweed to a coarse 100 mesh that disperses cleanly in cold water. It gels at remarkably low concentrations, and once set, the gel holds firm well above the temperature it set at, so a finished piece stands up on a warm counter or display case.

In doughnut glazes it keeps the sugar from crystallizing, so the glaze stays smooth and glossy instead of chipping, cracking, or weeping. In jelly candies and marshmallows it sets a clean, springy bite that cuts with straight edges, and in meringue mixes it adds stability. The powder is fine, off white, and neutral in flavor, so it brings structure without leaving a taste of its own.