Group: E400–E499 (thickeners, stabilisers, emulsifiers)
Carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC) or cellulose gum is a cellulose derivative with carboxymethyl groups (-CH2-COOH) bound to some of the hydroxyl groups of the glucopyranose monomers that make up the cellulose backbone. It is often used as its sodium salt, sodium carboxymethyl cellulose. It used to be marketed under the name Tylose, a registered trademark of SE Tylose.
CMC powder is widely used in the ice cream industry, to make ice creams without churning or extreme low temperatures, thereby eliminating the need for the conventional churners or salt ice mixes.
CMC is used in preparing bakery products such as bread and cake. The use of CMC gives the loaf a much improved quality at a reduced cost to the baker, by economizing on the fat component. CMC is also used as an emulsifier in high quality biscuits. By dispersing fat uniformly in the dough, it improves the release of the dough from the moulds and cutters, achieving well-shaped biscuits without any distorted edges. It can also help to reduce the amount of egg yolk or fat used in making the biscuits, thus achieving economy. Use of CMC in candy preparation ensures smooth dispersion in flavour oils, and improves texture and quality. CMC is used in chewing gums, margarines and peanut butter as an emulsifier. It is also used in leather crafting to burnish the edges.