This database provides factual regulatory information compiled from official government sources. It does not constitute medical, nutritional, or safety advice. Regulatory status varies by country and is subject to change. Always refer to your local regulatory authority for the most current information.

What Is Cellulose?

Microcrystalline cellulose (MCC) and powdered cellulose are purified forms of plant-derived cellulose used as bulking agents, anti-caking agents, and fat replacers in food products. Cellulose is the world's most abundant naturally occurring polymer — the structural component of plant cell walls. In food applications, it adds texture and bulk without contributing calories (it is non-digestible dietary fiber). JECFA considers it acceptable with no ADI specified. EFSA confirmed safety in 2016. MCC is used in low-calorie foods, while powdered cellulose is used in shredded cheese to prevent caking.

? Did You Know?

Cellulose occurs naturally in Plant cell walls (primary structural component) and Wood (40-50% cellulose). Many people consume it daily without realizing it's also a listed food additive.

Cellulose is derived from plant materials — its origin is more natural than its E-number might suggest.

Beyond food, Cellulose is also used in cosmetics, medicine, industrial applications, household products. Its versatility makes it one of the most multi-purpose chemical compounds in everyday life.

Detailed Regulatory Assessment

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European Union (EFSA)

approved Max: quantum satis mg/kg

Widely permitted in most food categories; considered inert dietary fiber.

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United States (FDA)

approved GRAS

Considered dietary fiber

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Japan (MHLW)

approved Cat: 既存添加物

Compliant with Japanese food sanitation law.

Acceptable Daily Intake (ADI)

International Standard (JECFA)

Not specified (considered inert dietary fiber)

mg/kg body weight per day

European Standard (EFSA)

Not specified

Natural Occurrence

Cellulose is the most abundant organic polymer on Earth, forming the structural framework of plant cell walls. When you eat fruits, vegetables, or whole grains, you're consuming cellulose as dietary fiber. Food-grade cellulose is purified from wood pulp or cotton.

Plant cell walls (primary structural component)Wood (40-50% cellulose)Cotton (90% cellulose)PaperAll fruits and vegetables (dietary fiber)

Manufacturing

Method: physical and chemical processing

Microcrystalline cellulose (E460i): Wood pulp or cotton is treated with dilute acid to remove amorphous (non-crystalline) regions, leaving highly crystalline microcrystals. These are then spray-dried to produce fine particles. Powdered cellulose (E460ii): Wood pulp is mechanically processed and purified to produce fine cellulose powder. Both forms are essentially purified, processed plant fiber.

Applications Beyond Food

Cosmetics

Bulking agent, absorbent, and viscosity controller in cosmetics.

Medical

Tablet binder and disintegrant (most common pharmaceutical excipient), capsule filler.

Industrial

Paper production, textile fibers, construction materials, biofuels.

Household

Paper products, cotton textiles, cellulose sponges.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Cellulose (E460)?

Cellulose (E460) is a thickener used in food products. It is bulking agent, anti-caking agent, texture modifier, emulsifier and natural (modified). Cellulose is the most abundant organic polymer on Earth, forming the structural framework of plant cell walls. When you eat fruits, vegetables, or whole grains, you're consuming cellulose as dietary fiber. Food-grade cellulose is purified from wood pulp or cotton.

Where is Cellulose found naturally?

Cellulose is naturally found in Plant cell walls (primary structural component), Wood (40-50% cellulose), Cotton (90% cellulose), Paper, All fruits and vegetables (dietary fiber). Cellulose is the most abundant organic polymer on Earth, forming the structural framework of plant cell walls. When you eat fruits, vegetables, or whole grains, you're consuming cellulose as dietary fiber. Food-grade cellulose is purified from wood pulp or cotton.

What is the ADI for Cellulose?

The Acceptable Daily Intake (ADI) for Cellulose is Not specified (considered inert dietary fiber) as established by JECFA (Joint FAO/WHO Expert Committee on Food Additives). ADI represents the amount that can be consumed daily over a lifetime without appreciable health risk.

What foods contain Cellulose?

Cellulose is used in various food categories including Dairy products and analogues, Foods for particular nutritional uses. It is used as a thickener in these products.

Is Cellulose the same as MCC (microcrystalline cellulose)?

Yes, Cellulose is also known as MCC (microcrystalline cellulose), Cellulose powder, Wood pulp, Plant fiber. These are different names for the same substance.