thickener INS 465

Ethyl Methyl Cellulose E465

emulsifier, stabilizer, film-former, foaming agent β€” Primarily natural (modified).

πŸ‡ͺπŸ‡Ί EU: Approved
πŸ‡ΊπŸ‡Έ USA: Approved
πŸ‡―πŸ‡΅ Japan: Approved
πŸ‡¦πŸ‡Ί AU/NZ: Approved
πŸ‡¨πŸ‡¦ Canada: Approved
Scientific Name

Ethylmethylcellulose

CAS: 9004-67-5

Data verified: 2026-04-04

Factual Regulatory Reference

This database provides factual regulatory information compiled from official government sources. It does not constitute medical, nutritional, or safety advice. Regulatory status varies by country and is subject to change. Always refer to your local regulatory authority for the most current information.

? Did You Know?

Ethyl Methyl Cellulose is derived from plant materials β€” its origin is more natural than its E-number might suggest.

Beyond food, Ethyl Methyl Cellulose is also used in cosmetics, medicine, industrial applications, household products. Its versatility makes it one of the most multi-purpose chemical compounds in everyday life.

Although classified as natural in origin, commercial Ethyl Methyl Cellulose is typically manufactured rather than extracted directly from food sources.

Detailed Regulatory Assessment

πŸ‡ͺπŸ‡Ί

European Union (EFSA)

approved Max: quantum satis mg/kg

Approved for use in specified food categories; less commonly used than other cellulose derivatives.

πŸ‡ΊπŸ‡Έ

United States (FDA)

approved GRAS

Regulated as a direct food additive under FDA CFR titles.

πŸ‡―πŸ‡΅

Japan (MHLW)

approved Cat: ζ—’ε­˜ζ·»εŠ η‰©

Compliant with Japanese food sanitation law.

Acceptable Daily Intake (ADI)

International Standard (JECFA)

Not specified (considered inert)

mg/kg body weight per day

European Standard (EFSA)

Not specified

Natural Occurrence

This additive is not known to occur naturally in significant quantities.

Manufacturing

Method: chemical modification

Produced by treating alkali cellulose with a mixture of methyl chloride and ethyl chloride, substituting hydroxyl groups with both methyl and ethyl ether groups. The dual substitution creates unique properties intermediate between methyl cellulose and ethyl cellulose.

Applications Beyond Food

Cosmetics

Film-former and thickener in cosmetics and personal care products.

Medical

Tablet binder and film coating.

Industrial

Coatings, adhesives, ceramics.

Household

Less common than other cellulose ethers.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Ethyl Methyl Cellulose (E465)?
Ethyl Methyl Cellulose (E465) is a thickener used in food products. It is emulsifier, stabilizer, film-former, foaming agent and natural (modified). Ethyl methyl cellulose is a semi-synthetic derivative of cellulose, created by chemically modifying plant cellulose with both ethyl and methyl groups. It's processed wood fiber or cotton that has been chemically altered.
What is the ADI for Ethyl Methyl Cellulose?
The Acceptable Daily Intake (ADI) for Ethyl Methyl Cellulose is Not specified (considered inert) as established by JECFA (Joint FAO/WHO Expert Committee on Food Additives). ADI represents the amount that can be consumed daily over a lifetime without appreciable health risk.
What foods contain Ethyl Methyl Cellulose?
Ethyl Methyl Cellulose is used in various food categories including Dairy products and analogues, Confectionery. It is used as a thickener in these products.
Is Ethyl Methyl Cellulose the same as EMC?
Yes, Ethyl Methyl Cellulose is also known as EMC, Methylethylcellulose. These are different names for the same substance.