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Source
Not animal-derived
Allergen
No
Role in food
Manufacturers use powdered cellulose as an anti-caking agent to keep powdered foods from clumping, …
What it is
Powdered cellulose is a dietary fiber made from the purified, ground-up cell walls of plants, typically wood pulp or cotton. It is processed to be very fine and pure, with most of the non-fiber components removed.
Why it's used
Manufacturers use powdered cellulose as an anti-caking agent to keep powdered foods from clumping, and as a thickener or stabilizer in processed foods. It can also add fiber to foods without significantly altering taste or texture. It is often found in shredded cheeses, baked goods, and powdered drink mixes.
Health notes
In the U.S., powdered cellulose is Generally Recognized As Safe (GRAS) by the FDA when used as intended. It is a non-digestible fiber, meaning it passes through the body largely unchanged. Regulatory bodies like JECFA and EFSA have evaluated cellulose and its derivatives. Evidence does not suggest adverse health effects at typical dietary intake levels.
Allergen info
Powdered cellulose is not derived from any of the nine FDA major allergens. It does not contain gluten.
Note:
This site presents label data from USDA FoodData Central for general information. It is not medical advice.
Check the package label; formulations change.