E468 · Cross-linked sodium carboxymethyl cellulose
- WHO
- Safe
- FDA
- Safe
- EFSA
- Safe
- FSANZ
- Safe
- Japan
- Safe
- UK FSA
- Safe
- Health Canada
- Safe
What is E468?
Cross-linked sodium carboxymethyl cellulose, also known as croscarmellose sodium, is a modified plant cellulose used as a thickener and stabilizer in food and as a disintegrant in tablets. In food it helps maintain texture and prevent separation in products like sauces, dressings, and ice cream. It is not digested by the body and passes through largely unchanged, acting as a source of insoluble fiber.
Also appears on labels as: Cross-linked sodium carboxymethyl cellulose, Crosslinked sodium carboxymethylcellulose, Croscarmellose sodium, Sodium croscarmellose, Sodium cross-linked CMC, Cross-linked CMC sodium, Cross-linked cellulose gum, Modified sodium carboxymethyl cellulose, Crosslinked cellulose gum, E468, E 468, E-468.
What the evidence says
- Generally recognized as safe at typical food levels.
- Very high intakes may contribute to bloating or gas due to its fiber-like, non-digestible nature.
Frequently asked questions
Is E468 safe?
Our overall verdict for E468 (Cross-linked sodium carboxymethyl cellulose) 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 E468 vegan, halal or gluten-free?
According to our ingredient data for Cross-linked sodium carboxymethyl cellulose — 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 E468 and why is it used?
Cross-linked sodium carboxymethyl cellulose, also known as croscarmellose sodium, is a modified plant cellulose used as a thickener and stabilizer in food and as a disintegrant in tablets. In food it helps maintain texture and prevent separation in products like sauces, dressings, and ice cream. It is not digested by the body and passes through largely unchanged, acting as a source of insoluble fiber.
Does E468 contain allergens?
No known allergens are recorded for Cross-linked sodium carboxymethyl cellulose.
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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.