Sodium carboxymethylcellulose

What is Sodium carboxymethylcellulose?

A semi-synthetic food additive with the role of emulsifier, stabilizer, and thickening agent, obtained from cellulose. It is also used as a carrier substance for other food additives. Carboxymethylcellulose ferments in the intestines, and excessive quantities can lead to bloating, constipation, or diarrhea. It has a detoxifying effect on the digestive tract and helps reduce cholesterol levels in the blood. It is a water-soluble powder used in the quantities prescribed by recipes in dairy products, sweets, creams, emulsified fats (spreadable or not), sauces, snacks, ice cream, processed and preserved fruits and vegetables, meat products, fish, eggs, spices, soups, broths, salads, edible membranes, plant protein products, dietary supplements, condiments, mustard, alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages, and dietetic products.

Why is Sodium carboxymethylcellulose added to food?

Sodium carboxymethylcellulose (E466) is a emulsifier commonly found in: Sour cream, cottage cheese, ice cream.

Permitted quantity: No daily intake limit has been established.

Is Sodium carboxymethylcellulose safe?

Unspecified

Is Sodium carboxymethylcellulose banned anywhere?

Is Sodium carboxymethylcellulose okay for kids?

This additive is not permitted in foods intended for infants and young children.

Common foods that contain Sodium carboxymethylcellulose

• Sour cream
• cottage cheese
• ice cream

See the full list of foods that contain Sodium carboxymethylcellulose →

How to spot Sodium carboxymethylcellulose on labels

Look for any of these names in the ingredients list:

• E466
• Sodium carboxymethylcellulose

Better alternatives

• Sodium carboxymethylcellulose may cause allergic reactions in sensitive individuals, including skin rashes, itching, or breathing difficulties. • Excessive consumption may lead to gastrointestinal issues, such as bloating, constipation, or diarrhea. • It may interfere with the absorption of other nutrients, such as vitamins and minerals, due to its gelling effect in the digestive tract. • People with kidney conditions should be cautious, as sodium carboxymethylcellulose may affect the body's electrolyte balance. • Prolonged use in large quantities may lead to laxative dependence, causing adverse long-term effects on digestive health.

Explore homemade alternatives to processed snacks →

Also known as

• sodium carboxymethylcellulose
• sodlum carboxymethylcellulose
• sodium carboxymethylcellulo$e
• $odium carboxymethylcellulose
• sodium earboxymethylcellulose
• sodium cdrboxymethylcellulose
• sodium carboxymethyleellulose

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