Sodium Carboxy Methyl Cellulose
Also known as: E466, sodium carboxymethylcellulose, carboxy methyl cellulose, Carboxymethylcellulose, cellulose gum
CMC is GRAS in the US and EFSA-authorised. Recent peer-reviewed clinical research (Chassaing et al.
What it is
Sodium carboxymethyl cellulose (cellulose gum, E466) is a chemically modified cellulose derivative.
Thickener, stabilizer, and emulsifier; improves texture in low-fat and frozen foods.
Why it's flagged
- Alters gut microbiota composition in human clinical trials (Chassaing et al. 2022)
- May increase intestinal inflammation in susceptible individuals
What regulators actually say
"CMC consumption altered the intestinal microbiota in a way that reduced its diversity ... fecal samples ... contained an altered microbiota with reduced capacity to digest fiber."
"The Panel was unable to derive an ADI ... and recommended further studies."
Regulatory status
United States — FDA
GRAS (21 CFR 182.1745)
European Union — EFSA
Authorised; group ADI under review
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