Introduction

Sodium carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC) is a widely used food additive and thickening agent derived from cellulose, a natural polymer found in the cell walls of plants. CMC is known for its ability to enhance texture, stabilize emulsions, and improve the overall quality of various food products.

Properties:

- Thickening: CMC is an effective thickening agent, capable of increasing the viscosity of liquids even at low concentrations.

- Stability: It remains stable over a wide range of temperatures and pH levels, making it suitable for various applications in food processing.

- Texture Improvement: CMC enhances the mouthfeel of products, contributing to a smoother and creamier texture.

- Water Retention: It helps retain moisture in food products, which can improve shelf-life and prevent drying out.

Applications:

Sodium carboxymethyl cellulose is used in a variety of food products, including:

- Dairy Products: Such as ice cream, yogurt, and cheese, where it improves texture and prevents ice crystal formation.

- Baked Goods: Used in gluten-free recipes to mimic the viscosity and texture provided by gluten.

- Sauces and Dressings: Acts as a stabilizer to prevent separation of oil and water in emulsions.

- Processed Foods: Used in soups, gravies, and instant mixes to enhance thickness and consistency.

Benefits:

- Gluten-Free: CMC is frequently used in gluten-free formulations to improve product stability and texture.

- Low-Calorie Alternative: As a thickening agent, it allows food manufacturers to reduce fat and sugar without compromising viscosity or mouthfeel.

- Emulsification: Helps stabilize emulsions, allowing for better mixing of ingredients that would otherwise separate.

Specification