Ingredient · E464

Hydroxypropyl Methylcellulose

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Source
Not animal-derived
Allergen
No
Role in food
HPMC is used as a thickener, emulsifier, and stabilizer in foods. It helps improve …

What it is

Hydroxypropyl methylcellulose (HPMC) is a chemically modified cellulose, a natural polymer found in plant cell walls. It is made by treating cellulose with methyl chloride and propylene oxide.

Why it's used

HPMC is used as a thickener, emulsifier, and stabilizer in foods. It helps improve texture and prevent ingredients from separating. It is often found in baked goods, sauces, dressings, and dairy alternatives.

Health notes

In the United States, HPMC is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA for use as a food additive. Regulatory bodies like the Joint FAO/WHO Expert Committee on Food Additives (JECFA) and the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) have evaluated HPMC. At typical consumption levels, it is not associated with adverse health effects. Some research suggests it may act as a dietary fiber, potentially aiding digestion.

Allergen info

Not a major allergen. It is derived from cellulose, which is plant-based.

Products containing Hydroxypropyl Methylcellulose

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Safeway, Inc. Ranch Salad Dressing & Seasoning Mix. Salad Dressing & Mayonnaise 278kcal 0Protein 0Fat 55.6Carbs SWEET P'S BAKE SHOP Petite Cinnamon Gourmet Bundt Cakes, Cupcakes, Snack Cakes 400kcal 2.5Protein 20Fat 55Carbs Potato Rosettes With Onion Flavor, Onion PREFERRED SELECTION Potato Rosettes With Onion Flavor, Onion French Fries, Potatoes & Onion Rings 150kcal 2.5Protein 5Fat 23.8Carbs Cookie Kit Cookies & Biscuits High in added sugars — 32% DV per serving 425kcal 5Protein 12.5Fat 75Carbs GENERAL MILLS SALES INC. Bty Crk Tmnt Cookie Mix Sgr Baking/Cooking Mixes/Supplies 368kcal 5.3Protein 7.9Fat 79.0Carbs GENERAL MILLS SALES INC. Bty Crk Hlo Kty Cookie Mix Strwbry Surps Baking/Cooking Mixes/Supplies 368kcal 5.3Protein 7.9Fat 79.0Carbs GENERAL MILLS SALES INC. Bty Crk Spongebob Squarepants Cookie Mix Pnaple Plng Baking/Cooking Mixes/Supplies 368kcal 5.3Protein 7.9Fat 79.0Carbs The J.M. Smucker Company Buttermilk Pancake & Waffle Mix With Candy Bits Cake, Cookie & Cupcake Mixes High in sodium — 24% DV per serving 352kcal 5.6Protein 2.8Fat 75.9Carbs Frito-Lay Company Rold Gold, Snowflakes Pretzels, Peppermint Dipped, Peppermint Dipped Popcorn, Peanuts, Seeds & Related Snacks High in saturated fat — 20% DV per serving 464kcal 3.6Protein 17.9Fat 67.9Carbs Frito-Lay Company Peppermint Dipped Snowflakes White Fudge Coated Pretzels, Peppermint Popcorn, Peanuts, Seeds & Related Snacks High in saturated fat — 20% DV per serving High in added sugars — 20% DV per serving 464kcal 3.6Protein 17.9Fat 67.9Carbs Kingston Marketing Co Petite Cinnamon Bundt Cakes, Cinnamon Cakes, Cupcakes, Snack Cakes 400kcal 2.9Protein 20Fat 57.1Carbs Kraft Heinz Foods Company Strawberry Gelatin Mix Edible Bricks Stickers, Strawberry Gelatin, Gels, Pectins & Desserts High in added sugars — 80% DV per serving 370kcal 6.5Protein 0Fat 87.0Carbs

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.