Product Overview
Carboxymethyl Cellulose Sodium (CMC) is a water-soluble cellulose derivative widely used as a thickening, stabilizing, and emulsifying agent in the food, pharmaceutical, cosmetic, and industrial sectors. It appears as a white to off-white powder that forms viscous solutions even at low concentrations. CMC improves texture, enhances mouthfeel, and stabilizes products by preventing separation.
Chemical and Physical Properties
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Chemical Formula: C6H7O2(OH)3-x(OCH2COONa)x (varies with substitution)
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Appearance: White to off-white powder
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Solubility: Soluble in cold and hot water, forming clear viscous solutions
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pH (1% Solution): Typically 6.5 – 8.0
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Viscosity: Varies by grade; commonly 50 – 2,000 mPa·s (depending on concentration and molecular weight)
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Odor and Taste: Odorless and tasteless
Applications and Functional Benefits
CMC is widely used for:
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Thickening and stabilizing sauces, dressings, and dairy products
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Improving texture and moisture retention in bakery and confectionery items
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Preventing ice crystal formation in frozen desserts
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Enhancing viscosity and suspension in beverages and syrups
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Acting as a binder and film former in pharmaceuticals and cosmetics
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Serving as a stabilizer in personal care formulations
Its excellent water-holding capacity and inert nature make it suitable for clean-label product formulations.
Quality Specifications
| Parameter | Specification | Typical Result |
|---|---|---|
| Appearance | White to off-white powder | Complies |
| Purity (Assay) | ≥ 99.0% | 99.5% |
| Moisture Content | ≤ 8.0% | 6.5% |
| pH (1% Solution) | 6.5 – 8.0 | 7.2 |
| Viscosity (1% Solution) | 50 – 2000 mPa·s | 1500 mPa·s |
| Heavy Metals (Lead) | ≤ 10 ppm | < 5 ppm |
| Ash Content | ≤ 10.0% | 7.0% |
Sensory Profile
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Appearance: Fine white to off-white powder
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Odor: Odorless
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Taste: Tasteless
Packaging and Storage
CMC is usually packaged in moisture-proof 25 kg bags or cartons. It should be stored in a cool, dry place, protected from moisture and contamination to maintain quality and shelf life, typically up to 2 years.
Regulatory Approvals
Carboxymethyl Cellulose Sodium is approved by FDA, EFSA, JECFA, and other global food safety authorities. It is Generally Recognized As Safe (GRAS) and widely used across food, pharmaceutical, and cosmetic industries.
Conclusion
Carboxymethyl Cellulose Sodium (CMC) is an essential thickener and stabilizer that enhances texture, viscosity, and shelf life of numerous products. Its versatility, safety, and clean-label compatibility make it a key ingredient in modern formulations.
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