Tag: Cellulose in food

According to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), cellulose is a commonly approved food additive found in thousands of food products across the country. While rumors have swirled about Taco Bell's ingredients, the company has directly addressed the use of cellulose in its seasoned beef and other menu items. This article will delve into what cellulose is, why it's used in fast food, and its overall safety.

While food-grade cellulose, a highly purified wood pulp derivative, is safely used as a food additive, the question "Is sawdust unhealthy to eat?" has a definitive and dangerous answer: yes, it is. This is because consuming unprocessed sawdust poses significant health risks far beyond the simple lack of nutrition.

The US FDA generally recognizes cellulose as safe for consumption, especially from whole plant foods. However, overconsumption of this fiber, particularly from processed sources or supplements, can lead to uncomfortable digestive side effects for some individuals.