Carboxymethyl Cellulose Food Grade

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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.

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Category: Emulsifiers Tags: Bakery and confectionery additive, Beverage and dairy stabilizer, Carboxymethyl cellulose, CMC food grade, Food stabilizer and thickener, Gluten replacement in gluten-free foods, Ice cream texture enhancer

Description

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.

PRODUCT KEY FEATURES

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

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