Some concerns raised; more research may be needed
Safety assessments compiled from FDA, EFSA, FSA, and 7 other regulatory agencies. This information is for educational purposes — consult a healthcare professional for dietary advice.
Sodium Carboxymethyl Cellulose (detail)
Last reviewed: April 2026 · Data sourced from WHO JECFA, FDA, EFSA, and 7 other regulatory agencies
At a Glance
Quick Answer
Sodium Carboxymethyl Cellulose (detail) is rated "Use Caution" according to current evidence. It is approved in the EU and approved in the US. This additive is currently approved in all four major markets (US, EU, UK, Japan).
On This Page
What is Sodium Carboxymethyl Cellulose (detail)?
CMC/cellulose gum. In ice cream (prevents ice crystals), toothpaste, gluten-free baking. Gut inflammation concerns from animal studies (2015 Nature paper by Chassaing et al)
Sodium Carboxymethyl Cellulose (detail) is classified as a Thickener additive. It is currently approved in all major regulatory markets.
Regulatory Status by Country
🇺🇸 United StatesUS
ApprovedCMC/cellulose gum. In ice cream (prevents ice crystals), toothpaste, gluten-free baking. Gut inflammation concerns from animal studies (2015 Nature paper by Chassaing et al)
🇪🇺 European UnionEU
Approved (as E466)CMC/cellulose gum. In ice cream (prevents ice crystals), toothpaste, gluten-free baking. Gut inflammation concerns from animal studies (2015 Nature paper by Chassaing et al)
🇬🇧 United KingdomUK
Same as EUFollows EU regulations
🇯🇵 Japan
Check MHLW🇨🇦 CanadaCA
ApprovedGenerally aligned with US FDA. Regulated by Health Canada.
🇦🇺 Australia/NZAU/NZ
ApprovedGenerally aligned with EU standards. Regulated by FSANZ.
🇮🇳 India
ApprovedWidely approved internationally. Regulated by FSSAI.
🇰🇷 South KoreaKR
Check MFDSVerify with South Korea's Ministry of Food and Drug Safety.
🇧🇷 Brazil
ApprovedGenerally aligned with Codex/US standards. Regulated by ANVISA.
🇨🇳 China
ApprovedPermitted under GB 2760 national standard.
Note: Canada, Australia/NZ, India, South Korea, Brazil, and China statuses are inferred from international regulatory patterns. Always verify with the relevant national authority.
Expert Analysis
Sodium Carboxymethyl Cellulose (detail) is classified as a thickener in the food additive regulatory framework. While approved for use, some scientific studies have raised questions that warrant ongoing monitoring. This additive is approved across multiple major regulatory markets worldwide, suggesting broad scientific consensus on its safety profile. As with all food additives, moderation is key. Consult healthcare professionals for personalized dietary advice.
Is Sodium Carboxymethyl Cellulose (detail) safe?
Sodium Carboxymethyl Cellulose (detail) has a safety rating of "Use Caution". Some concerns raised; more research may be needed
Is Sodium Carboxymethyl Cellulose (detail) vegan?
Sodium Carboxymethyl Cellulose (detail) is NOT vegan as it is derived from animal/insect sources.
Is Sodium Carboxymethyl Cellulose (detail) banned in Europe?
No, Sodium Carboxymethyl Cellulose (detail) is Approved (as E466) in the EU.
What is Sodium Carboxymethyl Cellulose (detail) made from?
CMC/cellulose gum. In ice cream (prevents ice crystals), toothpaste, gluten-free baking. Gut inflammation concerns from animal studies (2015 Nature paper by Chassaing et al)
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is Sodium Carboxymethyl Cellulose (detail) safe?
Is Sodium Carboxymethyl Cellulose (detail) banned in any country?
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Sources & References
Regulatory data for Sodium Carboxymethyl Cellulose (detail) is sourced from the following agencies:
- FDA: Substances Added to Food (formerly EAFUS)
- EFSA: Food Additives Database
- FSA: Approved Additives and E Numbers
- MHLW: Standards for Use of Food Additives
- Health Canada: Lists of Permitted Food Additives
- FSANZ: Food Additives
- FSSAI: Food Safety and Standards
- MFDS: Food Additives Standards
- ANVISA: Food Additives Legislation
- GB 2760: National Food Safety Standard
- WHO JECFA: International Safety Evaluations
- CSPI: Chemical Cuisine — Food Additive Safety Ratings
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