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.

Description

Carboxymethyl Cellulose Food Grade Uses

  1. 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
  1. 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

 

  1. 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

 

  1. 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

 

  1. 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

 

  1. 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

 

  1. 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

 

Firefighting Measures

  • Fire Hazards: Combustible dust hazard

  • Extinguishing Media: Water spray, foam, dry chemical, COâ‚‚

  • Special Precautions: Avoid dust clouds to prevent explosion

Decomposition Products: Carbon oxides and water vapor upon combustion