Enzymatically hydrolysed carboxymethyl cellulose is rarely listed on a food label with its full name. Instead, manufacturers prefer to simply write the common abbreviation E469.
Physical and chemical characteristics
According to the international classification, the presented tool passes into the category of stabilizers. With its help, it is possible to maintain the viscosity at the proper level and control the consistency in the final product. But if the substance is used for products far from the food industry, then its main task is the ability to serve as a plasticizer and thickening agent.
The colorless substance is an acid with the properties of an ionic polymer electrolyte. To get such a complex combination in the laboratory, you have to generate a reaction between cellulose and caustic soda.
The resulting result dissolves well in water, but does not have any characteristic aroma. The additive does not dissolve in oils of any type and remains non-toxic.
Together, this allows the product of the chemical industry to be used in the creation of various products in the food industry. Most often, the mention of E469 is found in the composition of ice cream, mayonnaise, cottage cheese desserts, creams and some other types of sweets.
In addition to being used to stabilize the texture of jelly figures, the agent is used to create shells at the final stages of the production of meat or fish products.
Manufacturers have fallen in love with the unusual pulp format because of its ability to retain its original properties for a long time. Such an approach guarantees cost reduction, which is beneficial for giant plants.
But in addition to semi-finished products or confectionery delights, carboxymethylcellulose can be found in certain cosmetics.
We are talking about toothpaste, shaving creams, shampoos and other helpers for body and hair care.
Representatives of the pharmaceutical market did not bypass it either. The additive has become almost mandatory in the composition of laxative tablets, mucolytic medicines.
Production restrictions
Before issuing permission to use E469 on an industrial scale, experts conducted a series of tests. This made it possible to confirm the relative safety of the additive, but only if it is used in strictly defined quantities.
Now on the territory of the Russian Federation, as well as a number of European states, it is allowed at the legislative level. At the same time, doctors are still skeptical about such permission. Some experts note that if you exceed the dosage through negligence, you can guarantee yourself an upset bowel.
Also, increased attention to such food should be shown by people with various deviations in metabolic processes. But allergy sufferers can breathe easy, as the additive is not an allergen.