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Ingredient Guide

🇬🇧 Carboxymethylcellulose (CMC) on Food Labels in UK

Carboxymethylcellulose (CMC) is permitted with proper declaration in United Kingdom: declare as "cellulose gum (E466)" in the ingredient list.

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What the Rule Is

Carboxymethylcellulose (cellulose gum, E466) is a plant-cellulose-derived thickener and stabiliser used in ice cream, protein drinks, and gluten-free products. In United Kingdom, Carboxymethylcellulose (CMC) is regulated under Retained EU Law & UK FIC as a food thickener. UK retains EU authorization. Declared with functional class and E-number. Same EFSA safety opinion applies.

What You Must Include
  • Declare as "cellulose gum (E466)" in the ingredient list
  • Declare with functional class: "thickener" and E-number E466
  • Review all compound ingredients for hidden sources
  • Cross-check all compound ingredients and sub-ingredients for hidden sources
Common Violations
  • Incorrect or missing declaration name — must use "cellulose gum (E466)"
  • Using an ambiguous or abbreviated name that does not identify Carboxymethylcellulose (CMC)
  • Omitting the E-number E466 where required
  • Not updating the label after recipe changes involving this ingredient
  • Failing to check compound ingredients for hidden Carboxymethylcellulose (CMC) content
Examples: Compliant vs Non-Compliant

Compliant Examples

"thickener: cellulose gum (E466)"
"cellulose gum (E466)" in ingredient list
Full ingredient line: "Ingredients: ... cellulose gum (E466) ..."

Non-Compliant Examples

Using a synonym (Cellulose gum, E466) without the approved declaration name
Ingredient list with "Carboxymethylcellulose (CMC)" without functional class or E-number
"Natural [ingredient category]" without specific name where specific name is required
How LabelGuard Checks This

LabelGuard scans your label for Carboxymethylcellulose (CMC) and all its common names (CMC, Cellulose gum, E466, Sodium carboxymethylcellulose) to verify correct declaration, required E-numbers, and proper functional class labeling under UK rules.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is carboxymethylcellulose (cmc) (E466)?

Carboxymethylcellulose (cellulose gum, E466) is a plant-cellulose-derived thickener and stabiliser used in ice cream, protein drinks, and gluten-free products. It commonly appears in: Ice cream, Salad dressings, Gluten-free bread, Cream cheese, Toothpaste.

Is carboxymethylcellulose (cmc) bad for you?

EFSA’s re-evaluation found no safety concern and set no ADI. Small recent studies suggesting emulsifiers like CMC may affect the gut microbiome have prompted ongoing research, but no regulator has changed its position; it remains permitted in all major markets.

How must Carboxymethylcellulose (CMC) be declared on food labels in UK?

Declare as "cellulose gum (E466)" in the ingredient list. UK retains EU authorization. Declared with functional class and E-number. Same EFSA safety opinion applies.

What are the common synonyms and hidden sources of Carboxymethylcellulose (CMC)?

Carboxymethylcellulose (CMC) may appear under the following names: CMC, Cellulose gum, E466, Sodium carboxymethylcellulose, Sodium CMC. Common hidden sources include: Ice cream, Salad dressings, Gluten-free bread, Cream cheese, Toothpaste, Some beverages.

Is carboxymethylcellulose (cmc) banned in UK or other markets?

Carboxymethylcellulose (CMC) is permitted in all major markets with proper declaration.

Regulation Sources

Last updated: 2026-07-20

Disclaimer: This information is for guidance only and does not constitute legal advice. Always consult official regulations and seek professional legal advice for specific compliance questions.

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