Tag: Sodium carboxymethyl cellulose

A 2022 human study published in *Gastroenterology* found that consumption of carboxymethyl cellulose modestly increased gastrointestinal discomfort and altered the gut microbiome in healthy adults. This finding highlights the ongoing debate and research into the safety of this ubiquitous food additive, also known as cellulose gum, which has long been considered harmless by regulatory bodies.

Though derived from plants, INS 466, also known as Sodium Carboxymethyl Cellulose, is a semi-synthetic food additive that has undergone significant chemical modification. It is not found in nature in its final form and is widely used across the food industry as a thickener and stabilizer.

According to research, some common food thickeners and emulsifiers, like sodium carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC), may negatively impact the gut microbiome and cause inflammation. Understanding what thickeners are bad for you is essential for navigating processed food ingredients and protecting your digestive health.