Agar is a galactose polymer obtained from the cell walls of some species of red algae or seaweeds (Sphaerococcus Euchema and Gelidium species), chiefly from eastern Asia. Also known as Kanten, Agar-Agar, or Agal-Agal (Ceylon Agar).

Dissolved in hot water and cooled, agar becomes gelatinous; its chief use is as a culture medium for microbiological work (e.g. agar plates). Other uses include as a laxative, a vegetarian gelatin substitute - a thickener for soups, in jellies, ice cream and Japanese desserts such as anmitsu, and as a clarifying agent in brewing.

Agar is a product obtained from several species of red algae, or seaweed, chiefly from the Ceylon, or Jaffna, moss (Gracilaria lichenoides) and species of Gelidium, harvested in eastern Asia and California. Chemically, agar is a polymer made up of subunits of the sugar galactose; it is a component of the algae's cell walls. Dissolved in boiling water and cooled, agar becomes gelatinous; its chief uses are as a culture medium (particularly for bacteria) and as a laxative, but it serves also as a thickening for soups and sauces, in jellies and ice cream, in cosmetics, for clarifying beverages, and for sizing fabrics. See also Rhodophyta. good

See also: agarose, agar plate

Agar is also the name of a place in the State of South Dakota in the United States of America: see Agar, South Dakota.

Agar is also the name of a computer game engine; see Agar (engine).

Agar is also the name of a fictional boy band appearing on Saturday Night Live. The group consists of five members: Kyle, the shy one; Chadddd, the cute one; Greg, the wild one (who is allergic to light); Jeremy; and finally Ass Face. According to manager Lou Pearlman, their name goes back to the protein-rich, gelatinous medium in which they were raised. Their first single, "Thinkin' 'bout Love", features the soulful melodies of Kyle and Jeremy, along with the street-wise raps and dance moves of Greg and Ass Face.

Agar in the Hindi and Persian languages is the equivalent of "if" in English.