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Answer: Carboxymethylcellulose (CMC) is not currently banned worldwide, but health agencies have flagged concerns. The FDA still allows it in US food. Risk level: medium. Commonly found in: Turkey Hill Ice Cream, Kraft Salad Dressing, Weight Watchers Frozen Meals.
TL;DR: Carboxymethylcellulose (CMC) is allowed in the EU but allowed in the US (thickener stabilizer).
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Also called cellulose gum. (E466) CAS 9004-32-4.
Other names: CMC, E466, cellulose gum, sodium carboxymethylcellulose, INS 466
| EU status | Allowed |
|---|---|
| US status | Allowed |
| Risk level | medium |
| Where it shows up | Turkey Hill Ice Cream, Kraft Salad Dressing, Weight Watchers Frozen Meals, Various dairy drinks, Some bread products |
| CAS number | 9004-32-4 |
Carboxymethylcellulose (CMC) is a cellulose derivative produced by reacting cellulose (from wood pulp or cotton) with sodium chloroacetate under alkaline conditions. As cellulose gum, it is highly water-soluble and provides viscosity and stability at low concentrations. It is one of the most widely used food hydrocolloids globally.
Thickens, stabilizes, and improves texture in ice cream, dairy drinks, salad dressings, and gluten-free foods; also prevents staling in baked goods.
A 2015 study published in Nature (Chassaing et al., Georgia State University) found that dietary CMC at levels comparable to typical food exposure disrupted the gut microbiome in mice, reducing protective mucus layer thickness, promoting low-grade inflammation, and accelerating colitis and metabolic syndrome in genetically predisposed animals. A 2022 randomized controlled trial (CARGO trial, published in Gastroenterology) in healthy humans confirmed that CMC disruption of gut microbiota composition was observed. EFSA and FDA have not changed approval status, but these findings have generated significant scientific discussion.
For educational use only. This page summarizes the regulatory status of Carboxymethylcellulose (CMC)with citations to the primary sources below. It is not medical advice. Regulatory status is not the same as a proven health effect — read the cited sources for their exact wording, and consult a doctor for decisions about your or your family's health.
Guar gum, xanthan gum, locust bean gum, and psyllium provide thickening with less documented microbiome disruption.
Yes — 'cellulose gum' is the consumer-friendly name for CMC (carboxymethylcellulose).
A 2015 Nature study and a 2022 human trial found CMC disrupted gut microbiota composition; FDA and EFSA have not restricted it pending further evidence.
CMC can be listed as dietary fiber on labels but has different properties from natural fibers like pectin or psyllium.
Not banned. Approved in EU as E466 and in US. Ongoing research may influence future regulatory positions.
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