heteroglycan alginic acid Europe::400 A linear copolymer macromolecule composed of homopolymeric blocks of 1→4-linked β-<small>D</small>-mannuronic acid and α-<small>L</small>-guluronic acid residues, covalently linked together in different sequences or blocks. Codex::400 A linear copolymer macromolecule composed of homopolymeric blocks of 1->4-linked beta-D-mannuronic acid and alpha-L-guluronic acid residues, covalently linked together in different sequences or blocks. LanguaL term definition: Food additive; technological purpose(s): bulking agent, carrier, emulsifier, foaming agent, gelling agent, glazing agent, humectant, sequestrant, stabilizer, thickener. copolymer macromolecule exopolysaccharide food additive