Ingredient · E466

Cellulose Gum Carrageenan

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Source
Not animal-derived
Allergen
No
Role in food
Cellulose gum is used as a thickener and stabilizer in a wide variety of …

What it is

Cellulose gum, also known as carboxymethylcellulose (CMC), is a modified form of cellulose, a natural fiber found in plants. It is made by chemically treating cellulose to make it soluble in water. This process results in a white, odorless powder that dissolves easily in liquids.

Why it's used

Cellulose gum is used as a thickener and stabilizer in a wide variety of foods. It helps prevent ingredients from separating, improves texture, and can make products feel richer. You'll find it in ice cream, baked goods, sauces, dressings, and beverages.

Health notes

Cellulose gum is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA for use in food. It is not absorbed by the body and passes through the digestive system. International bodies like JECFA and EFSA have evaluated it and found it safe for consumption. Some studies have explored its potential effects on gut health, but evidence is mixed and more research is needed.

Allergen info

Cellulose gum is not derived from any of the nine major allergens. It is also gluten-free.

Products containing Cellulose Gum Carrageenan

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Lofthouse, Frosted Sugar Cookies Lofthouse Foods Lofthouse, Frosted Sugar Cookies Cookies & Biscuits 421kcal 2.6Protein 15.8Fat 68.4Carbs Nestle USA Inc. Marshmallow Hot Cocoa Flavor Coffee Creamer, Marshmallow Hot Cocoa Milk Additives 233kcal 0Protein 10Fat 33.3Carbs Vanilla With Other Natural Flavors Frozen Dairy Dessert Filled With Caramel Swirl And Chocolate Flavored Peanut Butter Bunnies Topped With Caramel Sauce Dipped In Milk Chocolate Flavored Coating And Peanuts Bars, Vanilla Chocolate Wells Enterprises, Inc. Vanilla With Other Natural Flavors Frozen Dairy Dessert Filled With Caramel Swirl And Chocolate Flavored Peanut Butter Bunnies Topped With Caramel Sauce Dipped In Milk Chocolate Flavored Coating And Peanuts Bars, Vanilla Chocolate Ice Cream & Frozen Yogurt High in saturated fat — 60% DV per serving High in added sugars — 50% DV per serving 357kcal 4.8Protein 21.4Fat 41.7Carbs Passion Fruit Artisan Ice Cream, Passion Fruit Lineberry Vine Company Passion Fruit Artisan Ice Cream, Passion Fruit Ice Cream & Frozen Yogurt 177kcal 3.5Protein 4.4Fat 32.7Carbs River Valley Foods, Inc. Ice Cream, Vanilla Peanut Butter Ice Cream & Frozen Yogurt High in saturated fat — 22% DV per serving 231kcal 3.1Protein 13.8Fat 23.1Carbs DFA Dairy Brands, LLC Mackinac Island Fudge Vanilla Ice Cream With Chewy Fudge Pieces Swirled With Thick Fudge, Mackinac Island Fudge Ice Cream & Frozen Yogurt High in saturated fat — 30% DV per serving High in added sugars — 36% DV per serving 231kcal 3.3Protein 11.0Fat 30.8Carbs Foster Dairy Farms Coffee Ice Cream, Coffee Ice Cream & Frozen Yogurt High in saturated fat — 25% DV per serving 184kcal —Protein 9.2Fat 21.8Carbs The Kroger Co. Denali Moose Tracks Ice Cream, Denali Moose Tracks Ice Cream & Frozen Yogurt High in saturated fat — 50% DV per serving High in added sugars — 44% DV per serving 277kcal 3.6Protein 17.0Fat 30.4Carbs

Last updated: September 28, 2026

Note: This site presents label data from USDA FoodData Central for general information. It is not medical advice. Check the package label; formulations change.