Cellulose gum

Cellulose gum, also known as carboxymethylcellulose (CMC), is a semi-synthetic derivative of cellulose, the main structural component of plant cell walls. It is produced by the chemical modification of cellulose extracted from wood pulp or cotton, and is widely used in the food and pharmaceutical industries. As an additive, cellulose gum serves several functional roles: it acts as a thickener, gelling agent, stabiliser, and coating agent, particularly for capsules and tablets. It contributes to improving the texture, consistency, and stability of the formulations in which it is incorporated. Its inert nature and low intestinal absorption make it a common excipient in food supplements. Consumed in reasonable amounts, it is generally well tolerated. However, excessive intake may cause transient digestive discomfort, such as diarrhoea or, conversely, constipation. In the context of supplementation, it is present in very small quantities, sufficient to fulfil its technological function without any notable impact on the body.