E461 · Methylcellulose
- WHO
- Safe
- FDA
- Safe
- EFSA
- Safe
- FSANZ
- Safe
- Japan
- Safe
- UK FSA
- Safe
- Health Canada
- Safe
What is E461?
Methylcellulose is a plant-cellulose derivative used as a thickener, emulsifier, and gelling agent in sauces, gluten-free baked goods, and vegetarian/vegan meat substitutes (it can gel when heated, unlike most gums). It is not digested or absorbed by the body, which is why higher-dose pharmaceutical forms are used as bulk-forming laxatives.
Also appears on labels as: E461, E 461, E-461, INS 461, Methylcellulose, Methyl cellulose, Cellulose methyl ether, MC, Methocel, Methylated cellulose, Cellulose gum (methyl), Stabilizer E461.
What the evidence says
- Can act as a mild laxative and may cause bloating, gas, or cramping at high intakes.
- Should be taken with adequate fluid to avoid throat or digestive tract obstruction, particularly in concentrated supplement/laxative forms.
- Generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by FDA and approved by EFSA at typical food-use levels.
Research behind the verdict
- Methylcellulose: Semi-synthetic Cellulose Derivative Safety Assessment — EFSA Panel on Food Additives and Nutrient Sources, EFSA Journal - Cellulose Derivatives Assessment (2017). A comprehensive evaluation of methylcellulose (E461) examining its safety profile as a thickening agent, emulsifier, and bulking agent derived from plant cellulose. The research confirmed that methylcellulose provides excellent safety margins with beneficial dietary fiber properties. The study noted its unique thermogelling properties and effectiveness in various food and pharmaceutical applications. The assessment highlighted its plant-derived origin and supports its use in food products requiring specialized texture modification.[safe]
Frequently asked questions
Is E461 safe?
Our overall verdict for E461 (Methylcellulose) is “Safe”, based on the most cautious of the major regulators’ positions — FDA: safe; WHO: safe; EFSA: safe; FSANZ: safe; Japan: safe; UK FSA: safe; Health Canada: safe.
Is E461 vegan, halal or gluten-free?
According to our ingredient data for Methylcellulose — vegan: yes, vegetarian: yes, halal: yes, kosher: yes, gluten-free: yes, dairy-free: yes. Manufacturing sources can vary between products; check the label if it matters to you.
What is E461 and why is it used?
Methylcellulose is a plant-cellulose derivative used as a thickener, emulsifier, and gelling agent in sauces, gluten-free baked goods, and vegetarian/vegan meat substitutes (it can gel when heated, unlike most gums). It is not digested or absorbed by the body, which is why higher-dose pharmaceutical forms are used as bulk-forming laxatives.
Does E461 contain allergens?
No known allergens are recorded for Methylcellulose.
Watch E461
Get an email if the EFSA or FDA position on Methylcellulose changes, or when new research is added to this page.
EatMatrix reads any ingredient list with your camera and flags every additive instantly.
This page summarises publicly available regulatory assessments and research. It is general information, not medical advice. Sources: EFSA, FDA, WHO and the studies linked above.