Learn → Glossary → thickener gum

Methylcellulose(E461)

Level 2 — Generally safeIn Winter's Dictionary

Methylcellulose is a thickener gum — Binder, thickener, dispersing, emulsifying additive

Also: Cellulose, Methyl Ether

What it does

Binder, thickener, dispersing, emulsifying additive

Where you'll see it

Beverages, canned fruits with artificial sweeteners, kosher foods, low-cal crackers

What the research says

Ingestion of large doses may cause excessive bowel action, intestinal obstruction, may affect mineral/water-soluble vitamin absorption. Dose injected into rat abdomen causes cancer.

Regulatory status

  • US FDA: GRAS
  • EU: approved

Sources

  • A Consumer's Dictionary of Food Additives (Winter): ingestion of large doses may cause excessive bowel action and intestinal obstruction