Hydroxypropyl Cellulose
Also known as: E463, Hydroxypropylcellulose
Hydroxypropyl cellulose is a modified-cellulose food additive. EFSA's 2018 reassessment found no safety concern for modified celluloses (E461-E466, E468, E469) at current uses.
What it is
Hydroxypropyl cellulose (E463), a chemically modified cellulose ether.
Thickener, emulsifier, stabilizer, and film-former.
Why it's flagged
- GI discomfort/laxative effect at high intakes
What regulators actually say
"Hydroxypropyl cellulose may be safely used in food in accordance with the following prescribed conditions."
"The Panel concluded that there was no safety concern for the modified celluloses E 461, E 462, E 463, E 464, E 465, E 466, E 468 and E 469 at the refined exposure assessment."
Regulatory status
United States — FDA
Permitted food additive (21 CFR 172.870 - hydroxypropyl cellulose).
European Union — EFSA
E 463 approved; EFSA 2018 reassessment - no safety concern at reported uses.
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