Carboxymethyl Cellulose Food Grade
Carboxymethyl Cellulose Food Grade is a water-soluble cellulose derivative produced by the etherification of cellulose with monochloroacetic acid. It appears as a fine, white to off-white powder with excellent thickening, stabilizing, and water retention properties. Designed specifically for food applications, this grade complies with food safety regulations and is widely used as a texture modifier, stabilizer, and emulsifier in a variety of processed foods. It enhances product consistency, extends shelf life, and improves moisture retention without altering taste or odor. Being non-toxic, biodegradable, and non-caloric, it is considered safe for human consumption and is approved as a food additive in many countries.
Carboxymethyl Cellulose Food Grade Uses
- Primary Uses
Food Industry
- Used as a thickener and stabilizer in dairy products such as ice cream, yogurt, and cheese.
- Acts as a water retention agent in baked goods, enhancing freshness and texture.
- Functions as a fat replacer and texture modifier in low-fat and reduced-calorie foods.
- Employed in sauces, dressings, and beverages to improve viscosity and suspension of ingredients.
- Prevents crystallization and improves mouthfeel in confections and frostings.
Pharmaceutical Industry
- Utilized as a binder and controlled-release agent in oral dosage forms.
- Used as a suspending and thickening agent in liquid medicines and syrups.
Secondary Uses
Cosmetics & Personal Care
- Acts as a stabilizer and thickener in creams, lotions, and toothpaste.
Animal Feed
- Incorporated in animal feed formulations as a binder and pelletizer.
Industrial Applications
- Occasionally used in biodegradable packaging films and paper coatings.
- Basic Identification Attributes
- Chemical Name (IUPAC): Sodium carboxymethyl cellulose
- Common/Trade Name: Carboxymethyl Cellulose (CMC) Food Grade
- CAS Number: 9004-32-4
- HS Code: 3912.90.00
- Molecular Formula: Variable (polysaccharide derivative)
- Synonyms:
- Sodium CMC
- Cellulose gum
- E466
- Physical & Chemical Properties
- Physical State: Powder
- Color & Odor: White to off-white; odorless
- Solubility: Highly soluble in cold and hot water, forming viscous solutions
- pH (1% solution): 6.5–8.0
- Viscosity: Typically 100–4000 mPa·s (depends on grade and concentration)
- Moisture Content: <10%
- Bulk Density: ~0.3–0.6 g/cm³
- Degree of Substitution (DS): 0.6–0.95
- Stability: Stable under normal conditions; hygroscopic
- Safety & Hazard Attributes
- Hazard Class (GHS): Not classified as hazardous
- NFPA Ratings:
- Health: 0
- Flammability: 1 (dust hazard)
- Reactivity: 0
- Exposure Limits: Generally considered safe; no occupational exposure limits established
- Toxicity: Non-toxic and non-irritant at food use levels
- Reactivity: Chemically inert under normal use
- Storage & Handling Attributes
- Storage Conditions: Store in a cool, dry, and well-ventilated area away from moisture
- Container Type: Food-grade paper bags with polyethylene lining or HDPE drums
- Shelf Life: 2–3 years under proper storage
- Special Handling: Avoid dust formation; use dust masks in dusty environments
- Regulatory & Compliance Attributes
- FDA Status: Approved as a food additive (21 CFR §172.892)
- EU Food Additive Code: E466
- REACH Status: Registered
- Transportation: Not classified as hazardous
- Waste Disposal: Biodegradable; dispose according to local regulations
- Environmental & Health Impact
- Ecotoxicity: Low; biodegradable and non-toxic to aquatic life
- Persistence: Readily biodegradable under aerobic conditions
- Bioaccumulation: Not expected to bioaccumulate
- Carcinogenicity/Mutagenicity: Not classified as carcinogenic or mutagenic
Biodegradability: Readily biodegradable
- Safety Handling Precautions
Personal Protective Equipment (PPE):
- Dust mask or respirator when handling powders
- Safety goggles
- Gloves (optional)
Handling Measures:
- Minimize dust generation
- Use adequate ventilation in processing areas
Storage Measures:
- Keep containers tightly sealed
- Store away from moisture to prevent caking
Hygiene Practices:
- Wash hands after handling
- Avoid inhalation of dust
- Do not eat, drink, or smoke in the handling area
First Aid Measures
- Inhalation: Move to fresh air; consult physician if irritation occurs
- Skin Contact: Wash with soap and water; seek medical advice if irritation develops
- Eye Contact: Rinse eyes with water for 15 minutes; seek medical attention if irritation persists
- Ingestion: Non-toxic; rinse mouth and drink water; seek medical advice if discomfort occurs
Firefighting Measures
- Fire Hazards: Combustible dust hazard
- Extinguishing Media: Water spray, foam, dry chemical, CO₂
- Special Precautions: Avoid dust clouds to prevent explosion
Decomposition Products: Carbon oxides and water vapor upon combustion