Agar
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.
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.
