Emerging patterns, impact, and collaborative networks of global scientific output on carrageenan and digestive problems: A bibliometric analysis

BACKGROUND: The study aimed to analyze the current trends and spatiotemporal dynamics of research on carrageenan and digestive problems through a bibliometric study from 2019 to 2024. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The literature published on carrageenan and digestive issues from the period of January 2019 until July 2024 was examined using an observational and descriptive approach. The use of a quantitative approach was made in relation to authorship distribution and collaboration, country collaboration, and the evolution of themes. A search of the Scopus database was conducted with different keywords of “Carrageenan” and “Digestive problems.” Analysis and visualization of the data were done with the use of SciVal and RStudio software. RESULTS: Between 2019 and 2024, a significant increase in publication activity occurred, with associated variations in publication types and pronounced growth in international collaboration. In regard to scientific production, there was an average year-on-year increase of 18.98%, with an average age of the papers of 3.2 years and an average of 15.72 citations per article. A total of 889 authors produced the articles, with an average of 6.71 co-authors per paper and 21.33% international collaborations. Notable institutions producing articles include the Ocean University of China, which produced seven articles, and Jimei University, which produced five articles. The scientific production was highest in China (40), followed by Brazil and Japan, and while most authors contributed a single article, there was a lack of equal scientific productivity accumulated in the articles. CONCLUSIONS: The results highlight both the importance and the need to investigate carrageenan and its impact on digestive issues that might yield exciting avenues of research. The number of publications being produced regarding this foundational aspect of research continues to be relevant. The examination of literature also illustrated the key role of international collaborations and changing research agendas in dealing with the challenges related to digestive problems.