E466 · Carboxymethylcellulose, sodium carboxymethylcellulose
- WHO
- Safe
- FDA
- Safe
- EFSA
- Safe
- FSANZ
- Safe
- Japan
- Safe
- UK FSA
- Safe
- Health Canada
- Safe
What is E466?
Carboxymethylcellulose (CMC), also called sodium carboxymethylcellulose or cellulose gum, is a plant-derived thickener made from wood pulp or cotton. In food it is used to thicken sauces, stabilize ice cream, and improve texture in baked goods. It is considered safe by EFSA and the FDA at typical use levels, though it is one of several emulsifiers studied for possible effects on gut bacteria when consumed in large, repeated amounts.
Also appears on labels as: Carboxymethylcellulose, Sodium carboxymethylcellulose, CMC, NaCMC, Cellulose gum, Modified cellulose, Cellulose carboxymethyl ether, Carboxymethyl cellulose, Carboxy methyl cellulose, Cellulose, carboxymethyl ether, sodium salt, Sodium salt of carboxymethylcellulose, Sodium CMC.
What the evidence says
- Some animal and preliminary human studies suggest emulsifiers like CMC may alter gut microbiota composition and intestinal inflammation with high, sustained intake; evidence in humans at typical dietary levels is still limited.
- Large amounts can have a mild laxative effect.
Frequently asked questions
Is E466 safe?
Our overall verdict for E466 (Carboxymethylcellulose, sodium carboxymethylcellulose) 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 E466 vegan, halal or gluten-free?
According to our ingredient data for Carboxymethylcellulose, sodium carboxymethylcellulose — 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 E466 and why is it used?
Carboxymethylcellulose (CMC), also called sodium carboxymethylcellulose or cellulose gum, is a plant-derived thickener made from wood pulp or cotton. In food it is used to thicken sauces, stabilize ice cream, and improve texture in baked goods. It is considered safe by EFSA and the FDA at typical use levels, though it is one of several emulsifiers studied for possible effects on gut bacteria when consumed in large, repeated amounts.
Does E466 contain allergens?
No known allergens are recorded for Carboxymethylcellulose, sodium carboxymethylcellulose.
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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.