Ingredient · E461

Methylcellulose Gum

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Source

Not animal-derived

Allergen

No

Role in food

Manufacturers add methylcellulose gum as a thickener, stabilizer, and emulsifier. It helps improve texture …

What it is

Methylcellulose gum is a plant-derived, water-soluble fiber. It is made by chemically treating cellulose, a natural polymer found in the cell walls of plants like wood pulp or cotton. This process creates a white, powdery substance that dissolves in water to form a viscous solution.

Why it's used

Manufacturers add methylcellulose gum as a thickener, stabilizer, and emulsifier. It helps improve texture and prevent ingredients from separating in foods. It is commonly found in baked goods like cakes and cupcakes, frozen appetizers, and dessert toppings.

Health notes

Methylcellulose gum is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA for use in food. It functions as a dietary fiber, which may aid in digestion and promote a feeling of fullness. International bodies like JECFA and EFSA have evaluated methylcellulose gum. Evidence does not suggest significant health concerns at typical consumption levels.

Allergen info

Methylcellulose gum is not derived from any of the 9 FDA major allergens. It does not contain gluten.

Products containing Methylcellulose Gum

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General Mills, Inc. Stuffed Meatball & Pepperoni Italian Style Pork Meatball, Pepperoni, Marinara & Cheese In A Flaky Crust, Stuffed Meatball & Pepperoni Frozen Appetizers & Hors D'oeuvres High in sodium — 46% DV per serving High in saturated fat — 80% DV per serving 360kcal 9.3Protein 24Fat 26.7Carbs Dawn Food Products, Inc. Cake Boss, Cake Mixes, Viva Vanilla, Viva Vanilla Baking Decorations & Dessert Toppings High in saturated fat — 23% DV per serving 514kcal 0Protein 31.4Fat 62.9Carbs ADF Foods (USA) Ltd. Meatless Meatballs, Savory Mushroom Vegetarian Frozen Meats 233kcal 18.6Protein 10.5Fat 13.9Carbs Dawn Food Products, Inc. Oh My Ganache! Cake, Chocolate Cakes, Cupcakes, Snack Cakes High in saturated fat — 30% DV per serving 392kcal 3.8Protein 20.2Fat 49.4Carbs Dawn Food Products, Inc. Baby Bloom Cupcakes Cakes, Cupcakes, Snack Cakes High in saturated fat — 45% DV per serving High in cholesterol — 27% DV per serving 425kcal 3.5Protein 23.9Fat 49.6Carbs Dawn Food Products, Inc. Baby Bloom Hand Decorated Yellow Cupcakes, Creamy Fudge Cakes, Cupcakes, Snack Cakes High in saturated fat — 45% DV per serving High in cholesterol — 25% DV per serving 425kcal 2.6Protein 23.0Fat 51.3Carbs Dawn Food Products, Inc. Baby Bloom Filled Cupcakes Cakes, Cupcakes, Snack Cakes High in saturated fat — 45% DV per serving High in cholesterol — 25% DV per serving 425kcal 2.6Protein 23.0Fat 51.3Carbs Dawn Food Products, Inc. Let It Snow Hand Decorated Yellow Cupcakes Cakes, Cupcakes, Snack Cakes High in saturated fat — 45% DV per serving High in cholesterol — 25% DV per serving 421kcal 2.6Protein 22.8Fat 52.6Carbs Dawn Food Products, Inc. Bada Blue, Decorating Icing Baking Decorations & Dessert Toppings High in saturated fat — 20% DV per serving 514kcal 0Protein 28.6Fat 62.9Carbs Dawn Food Products, Inc. Hand Decorated Yellow Cupcakes Filled With Creamy Fudge And Topped With Rich And Creamy Icing Cakes, Cupcakes, Snack Cakes High in saturated fat — 45% DV per serving High in cholesterol — 25% DV per serving 421kcal 2.6Protein 22.8Fat 52.6Carbs Dawn Food Products, Inc. Hello Yellow Decorating Icing Baking Decorations & Dessert Toppings High in saturated fat — 20% DV per serving 514kcal 0Protein 28.6Fat 62.9Carbs Dawn Food Products, Inc. Electric Green Decorating Icing Baking Decorations & Dessert Toppings High in saturated fat — 20% DV per serving 514kcal 0Protein 28.6Fat 62.9Carbs

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.