Cellulose Gum

Alternate Names

Carboxymethyl Cellulose, Sodium Carboxymethyl Cellulose, CMC, Modified Cellulose, Cellulose Gel

Description

Made from plant fibers (cellulose is the main fiber of plants) including trees and cotton. It is highly water absorbent, cheap and abundant. This synthetic gum helps to improve shelf life and has a variety of uses.

Cellulose Gum - Quick Stats

What's This?

Names

Carboxymethyl Cellulose, Sodium Carboxymethyl Cellulose, CMC, Modified Cellulose, Cellulose Gel

Allergy Information

Uses

Stabilizer, Thickener, Bulking Agent, Emulsifier, Fiber

E-Number

E460, E461, E462, E463, E464, E465, E466, E468, E469

Additional Information

Also considered a fiber source and is used in laxatives.

Found In

ice cream, processed cheese, beverages, infant formula, cottage cheese, cream cheese, dressings, desserts, concentrated juice

Possible Health Effects

Due to the fibrous nature, may cause flatulence, diarrhea, and cramping. Is not absorbed by the body.

Allergy Information

Unknown

Online Resources/Related

Material Safety Data Sheet, Carboxymethyl cellulose sodium MSDS, November 6, 2008, Sciencelab.com, Inc.

Print Resources

Statham, Bill. Eat Safe: The Truth about Additives from Aspartame to Xanthan Gum. Running Press, 2008
Winter, Ruth. A Consumer's Dictionary of Food Additives, 7th Edition: Descriptions in Plain English of More Than 12,000 Ingredients Both Harmful and Desirable Found in Foods. Three Rivers Press, 2009
Farlow, Christine Hoza, D.C.Food Additives: A Shopper's Guide To What's Safe & What's Not. KISS For Health Publishing, 2007 Revised Edition

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