Carboximethylcellulose

Carboxymethylcellulose (CMC) is a modified form of cellulose, a natural fiber found in plants. It is made by chemically treating cellulose, often derived from wood pulp or cotton linters.

CMC is used as a thickener, stabilizer, and emulsifier in a wide variety of foods. It helps prevent ingredients from separating and gives foods a smoother texture. You can find it in products like powdered drinks, ice cream, baked goods, and salad dressings.

In the U.S., CMC is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA for use in food. Regulatory bodies like the Joint FAO/WHO Expert Committee on Food Additives (JECFA) and the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) have evaluated CMC and found it safe for consumption. Studies generally show it is not absorbed by the body and passes through undigested. Some research suggests it may have a prebiotic effect, feeding beneficial gut bacteria, but more studies are needed.