FAQ‑Food Grade Sodium Carboxymethyl Cellulose (CMC)

Q1: What is food‑grade Sodium Carboxymethyl Cellulose (CMC)? 

A: Food‑grade Sodium Carboxymethyl Cellulose, also known as CMC‑Na, is a water‑soluble anionic cellulose derivative. It is a multi‑purpose food additive functioning as thickener, stabilizer, suspending agent and water‑retention agent, INS 466, complying with JECFA, FDA and GB 2760.

Q2: What is the main function of food grade CMC in food?

A: It provides thickening effect, stabilizes food system, prevents layering and precipitation, controls ice‑crystal formation, locks moisture and improves mouthfeel. It can also compound with other hydrocolloids to achieve better performance.

Q3: What industries and products can food grade CMC be used in?

A: It is widely used in fruit juice beverages, lactic acid drinks, yogurt, ice‑cream, sauces, ketchup, bakery goods, noodles, jams and canned foods.

Q4: Is food‑grade CMC safe for human consumption?

A: Yes. Our food‑grade CMC is non‑toxic and odorless. It passes food‑grade purification process and meets global food safety specifications. It is legally approved for food processing.

Q5: What is the difference between ordinary CMC and acid‑resistant CMC grade?

A: Ordinary CMC works well under neutral‑weak alkaline environment. Acid‑resistant CMC keeps stable viscosity in low‑pH acidic systems, suitable for acidic fruit juice and fermented beverages.

Q6: What is the recommended dosage range for food grade CMC? 

A: The general dosage is 0.05%‑0.5% based on different food formulas. Customers need to do small‑scale trial test according to their own process conditions.

Q7: Why does CMC agglomerate when dissolving? How to avoid caking?

A: Direct pouring into water will cause surface gelatinization and agglomeration. Suggest dispersing CMC with sugar or other powder materials first, then add into water under continuous stirring.

Q8: Can food grade CMC mix with other thickeners or emulsifiers? 

A: Yes. CMC has good compatibility with most hydrocolloids and emulsifiers. Compound use can improve stability and reduce total additive cost.

Q9: What packaging do you supply for food grade CMC?

A: Standard package is 25kg kraft paper bag with inner PE liner. Customized packaging is available upon customer request.

Q10: How should I store food‑grade CMC powder?

A: Store in cool, dry and ventilated warehouse, keep away from moisture and direct sunlight. Reseal the bag well after opening to prevent moisture absorption.

Q11: Can you provide free samples for formula test?

A: Yes, we support free‑of‑charge samples for quality and formula evaluation. Customers only need to bear the freight cost.

Q12: What certificates and documents can you provide for export customs clearance? 

A: We can supply COA, food safety certificate, health certificate, packing list, invoice and other supporting documents to meet import customs requirements of different countries.