Enzymatically Hydrolyzed Carboxymethyl Cellulose E469
thickener, emulsifier, bulking agent β Primarily natural (modified).
Enzymatically hydrolyzed carboxymethylcellulose
CAS: 9004-32-4
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?
Enzymatically Hydrolyzed Carboxymethyl Cellulose is derived from plant materials β its origin is more natural than its E-number might suggest.
Beyond food, Enzymatically Hydrolyzed Carboxymethyl 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 Enzymatically Hydrolyzed Carboxymethyl Cellulose is typically manufactured rather than extracted directly from food sources.
Detailed Regulatory Assessment
European Union (EFSA)
Approved for use in specified food categories; less commonly used than regular CMC (E466).
United States (FDA)
Treated as variant of CMC
Japan (MHLW)
Compliant with Japanese food sanitation law.
Acceptable Daily Intake (ADI)
International Standard (JECFA)
mg/kg body weight per day
European Standard (EFSA)
Natural Occurrence
This additive is not known to occur naturally in significant quantities.
Manufacturing
Produced by first creating sodium carboxymethylcellulose (E466) through chemical modification of cellulose, then treating it with cellulase enzymes to partially break down the polymer chains. This enzymatic hydrolysis creates shorter chain fragments with lower viscosity than regular CMC but retains the beneficial emulsifying and stabilizing properties. The degree of hydrolysis can be controlled to achieve desired viscosity.
Applications Beyond Food
Low-viscosity stabilizer in liquid cosmetics and personal care products.
Excipient in liquid formulations, low-viscosity binder.
Paper coating, textile processing.
Less common than regular CMC.