E466
E466: Carboxymethylcellulose
Moderate concernFunction: thickener
What is E466?
E466 (Carboxymethylcellulose) is a thickener used in processed foods.
What the research says
A 2022 controlled trial in healthy people found it changed gut bacteria and their metabolites.
Regulatory status
| European Union | Approved |
|---|---|
| United States | Approved |
Questions people ask
Is E466 (Carboxymethylcellulose) safe?
A 2022 controlled trial in healthy people found it changed gut bacteria and their metabolites.
Why is E466 added to food?
It is used as a thickener.
Does E466 make a food ultra-processed?
Yes. Under the NOVA system, cosmetic additives such as E466 mark a food as ultra-processed.