Carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC)

Carboxymethyl cellulose or cellulose gum, which has the trade name CMC, is obtained from the cell walls of plants. CMC is a water-soluble hydrocolloid and can be used as a thickener, stabilizer, emulsifier, water retainer, and bulking agent. Cellulose gum is widely used as an additive in food products such as ice creams, cakes, biscuits, jellies, desserts, candies, solid and liquid beverages, dairy products, meat products, canned foods, etc.

Carboxymethyl cellulose increases the volume and moldability of various breads and cakes, Also, due to its hydrophilic nature, prevents water evaporation in flour-based products. This additive in the production of various noodles and pasta can increase the hardness of the strands, improve cooking resistance, and boost the taste. In various types of milk and yogurt, it prevents the accumulation and sedimentation of fat and protein. In the production of various ice creams, carboxymethyl cellulose increases resistance to melting, reduces the formation of large ice crystals, preserves and stabilizes the original flavor of the ice cream, prevents the icy taste after the freezing process, whitens the color of the ice cream. Also, increases its volume, and reduces the use of solid raw materials, resulting in reducing the cost of ice cream production. In ice cream formulations, the combination of sodium carboxymethyl cellulose with carrageenan and guar increases the viscosity of the ice cream mixture. The fiber present in CMC acts as a filling agent, providing long-term satiety and suppressing appetite, so its consumption has a significant effect on weight loss. Although the safety of using this substance has been confirmed by the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) and the World Health Organization (WHO), excessive use of this product can cause allergies, and chronic inflammatory conditions, especially in the digestive system, colitis, metabolic syndrome, and colon cancer. For more information about the appropriate dosage of CMC, contact us.